Earth Hour origins
Earth Hour was started by the Worldwide Wildlife Fund on 2007. It was conceptualized by Andy Ridley and WWF-Australia was the first partner. The movement was created to encourage people to take action against climate change and to help protect the planet. It gathered global attention when it did the ‘lights out’ event in Sydney, Australia in the same year.
Every year, the event grew its following. Finally, on 2013, Earth Hour became a global event. The ‘lights out’ part became a regular fixture, together with musical performances and educational programs.
Does the hour-long darkness matter?
One of the most popular part of Earth Hour is the ‘lights out’ part. In the move, light and idle appliances are turned off for 60 minutes. But does it really make a change? Absolutely! While an hour seems relatively short, if it’s done by a large number of people, a lot of energy can be saved. And, as you know, the less consumption, the better it will be for Mother Nature.
For example, in 2017, Eskom, South Africa reportedly saved 420 Megawatts for its efforts in Earth Hour. The amount is enough to power one city for an hour. The record for Eskom was 575 MW, which was made last 2016.
More than that, however, the lights out action is symbolic. It promotes that we learn to save resources as a habit. Most people question the event, since they think that the program itself uses a lot of electricity and resources. But the truth is, in every celebration the organizers keep the carbon footprint at a minimum. This is done the whole year when other events are held.
Is Earth Hour anti-technology?
Nope. Actually, the Earth Hour movement welcomes new technologies which can help save resources and Mother earth. The goal is for positive living—both for humans and the environment. So even the simplest of technology, like LED lights replacing regular lights is welcome. Since LED lights are more efficient but use less energy. One of the goals of the movement is to use technology wisely and sustainably. Because as you know, most natural resources cannot be reused or will take a significant amount of time to be replenished.
In Qatar, some establishments honored the event. Banana Island, for instance, commemorated Earth Hour by having Tiki torches near its iconic ‘I Go Banana’ sign. Participants were treated with music and canapés and beverages. The island resort is known for its active ‘green’ policy. Promoting ‘reduce, reuse, and recycle’ and other environment friendly efforts.
So while you may have missed the main celebration, helping the Earth is not a once a year opportunity. Do your best to save water and electricity and other resources, and you’ll be doing you and the future for years to come.
