Starting as an idea in Sydney in 2007 when 2.2 million residence took part in turning off all non essential lights, Earth Hour is now celebrated in over 100 countries. To see just how big Earth Hour is, check out this video:The campaign organised by the WWF makes a statement to world leaders that we need action taken to combat climate change. It's not just individuals sending this message. Many multinational companies and landmarks will black out this Saturday (26th March, 2011) between 830pm and 930pm. Earth Hour has garnered support from many corporations including Coca-Cola Enterprises, Wells Fargo, IKEA, HSBC, PwC, Accenture and Nokia Siemens Networks. You'll also see many landmarks black out for the hour including Mount Rushmore, the Las Vegas Strip, the Empire State Building, Niagara Falls, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Beijing's Bird's Nest and the Eiffel Tower. Some TV networks will stop transmission for the hour.
If you haven't participated in Earth Hour then this is your year to start. Find out what your city is doing and go participate or organise a group and do your own thing. There is plenty of fun to be had in the dark!
If you've been an Earth Hour supporter in the past let's increase the challenge. For 2011, let's "preach to the unconverted". Share your concern for climate change with friends and family less passionate than yourself. However the strength is in the subtlety. Maybe organise a night out where you just happen to be walking within view of your city's largest monument at 830pm. For a cosier effect have a dinner party only lit by candle light. When your friends arrive and ask if the electricity is out, simply reply, "It's Earth Hour tonight. Doesn't everyone turn off their lights". Whatever you do, I am confident you will come up with your own bright ideas for this dark hour.
