I believe Earth Hour is a fantastic initiative that offers an easy yet impactful way to save energy. It’s hard to believe it’s already here again—time really does fly! Personally, I enjoy participating in this electricity-free hour and have done so multiple times throughout the year.
Earth Hour 2012 is quickly approaching, taking place tomorrow, March 31st, from 8:30 PM to 9:30 PM (local Aurora time). Be sure to switch off your lights during this hour to show your commitment to combating climate change!
On the other hand, there’s a bit of irony in all of this. Despite the considerable energy and time we invest in promoting Earth Hour in our town, I can’t help but notice some peculiarities when walking around. Take a look at the photo and think about what stands out as being out of place.
Our town should be setting a positive example, but there are times when I find myself questioning that. Earth Hour serves as a reminder that even small actions can make a big difference. What’s one hour per year, in a single day? It might seem insignificant, but when you consider the cumulative effect of all these hours, it becomes clear that every little bit counts.
However, this effort to make a difference sometimes feels undermined by the very same people who promote it. There’s a noticeable disconnect between the awareness created by Earth Hour and the everyday behaviours of many. As much as we turn off our lights for that hour, I’ve seen people who promote the event leaving their lights on at other times, or worse, participating in other energy-wasting habits. It’s a classic example of the “do as I say, not as I do” mentality.
The idea behind Earth Hour is to inspire long-term change, not just a symbolic gesture. Yet, if we don’t make an effort to follow through with sustainable habits year-round, the message becomes diluted. Earth Hour should be more than just one hour—it’s about fostering a culture of energy conservation in our daily lives. If we truly want to make a difference, we need to lead by example, consistently and consciously. Otherwise, we’re merely checking a box for an hour, only to return to habits that ultimately harm our planet.
