I am a big fan of Earth Hour. Some people say that turning your lights off for one hour a year is tokenism, however I disagree. By participating in this event, it makes people think and act by participating in something that is much bigger than their own lives. They become part of a massive movement across the globe that influences others to act as well in their own small way. It gives each person a sense of control, which is often lost when hit daily by news about the effects of climate change, and the gives them a feeling that they can make a difference with their actions (which we can by the way).
Now I may be way off the mark here, but I believe that it also encourages ‘peer group pressure’ which is a very powerful influencing tool. The majority of humans want feel needed and part of something. So by saying to friends and family that you are participating and so did 1.8 billion others last year, they might just think that it is a good idea or fun to join in.
We usually have a family gathering or party with friends, turn the mains lights off and enjoy each others company in candle light or by solar lighting. I also encourage and push the conversation in the direction of actions that others can do beyond Earth Hour. You know, the kind of things that I do and many of your the reader as part of our own efforts. Most of all, we have fun!
This year I am not quite sure where I will be for Earth Hour. I could be here at home having a party for the event, or I could be in Sydney as part of the Earth Hour awards! You see, earlier on in the year when I asked readers to follow or link or like on facebook, it was to help with the application for the 2012 Eco Blogger Award. Only time will tell if this blog gets listed as a finalist and then judged. I will let you all know the outcome. Fingers and toes crossed.
Either way, I know I will have a great time, and where ever I am I will be promoting action on climate change and the many benefits of living a sustainable lifestyle.
Wish me luck, and have a great Earth Hour yourselves. If you have never joined in before, give it a go, invite friends or neighbours over for a gathering, and make it an annual event. It is great fun.
thank you for bringing this event to my attention Gavin…I “liked” on Facebook and have put the “ticker” on my blog! saving our planet…one hour at a time
We held an event for Earth Hour last year and hosted a screening of the movie “Fuel” attended by a small group of our closest friends and family. Was great fun! Of course operating a screen projector bent the rules a little on the idea of “turning off your lights”, but we were still sitting in a dark room and it was powered by 100% green electricity so we justified it that way!