Written by Jasmine Lawrie, Scotland

WHAT IS EARTH HOUR?

In Summary, Earth Hour is a movement carried out in order to try spread awareness of climate change and help contribute towards saving our planet. It is mainly run by one of the world’s largest organisations, WWF, alongside some voluntary organisations too. Originally, it began in Sydney, Australia in 2007 as a “lights out event” but since, has spread worldwide. It’s one of the best-known movements which influences millions across the world to seek change in their daily actions in aid of saving our planet and nature.

HOW CAN I GET INVOLVED?

The more people who get involved, the merrier. The public awareness on social media this year is great, but for those who aren’t informed about Earth Hour, here’s how to get involved.

At 8:30PM/20:30 your time on Saturday 30th March, worldwide people will be switching off their lights. Whether it’s general society, businesses or landmarks, all lights will be switched off between the hour of 8:30-9:30PM. It’s simple really but effective in the long run. Consider your future actions – are your lights really necessary? Do you need multiple lights on in one room? Switch it off!

WHY SHOULD I GET INVOLVED?

Unless you’re living under a permanent rock, you will be aware that sadly, our planet is in danger. Animals are under danger, biodiversity is fading, our weather conditions are becoming more adverse and our seas are destroyed with plastic. Some statistics and facts stated on the Earth Hour website include the following:

• Wildlife populations have decreased by 60% in just under 50 years.
• The threat of extinct for species currently sits at 1 in 6 species.
• With an increasing amount of plastic in the sea, by 2050 we could see more plastic than fish in our oceans.
• Without nature, we cannot function. Consider it – it produces our oxygen, we rely on food and water sources, and by destroying nature, well, how would be survive?

WHO IS GETTING INVOLVED?

Millions of people across the world will be getting involved. Of those who get involved every year, they believe that it increases their knowledge and awareness on climate change, and as a result, begin to take more responsibility for their own actions and try their best to protect the planet. Being a Scot, I feel incredibly proud when I see Scotland taking action and getting involved with the environment. This morning, I read an article, produced by the Scottish News, STV. Some of Scotland’s most famous landmarks including the Kelpsies and Forth Bridge will be in darkness throughout Earth Hour. Additionally, landmarks around the world including the Eiffel Tower in Paris and Times Square in New York will be carrying out the same exercise. 

SO, WHAT IS STOPPING YOU?

Participate and do your part for the planet before it’s too late.

Find out more here: Earth Hour