Earth Hour Is Tomorrow

Photo by María Helena Carey

What are you doing on March 27th at 8:30 pm?

Well, if you want to raise your own awareness of climate change and the impact we have on the Earth, you will most likely turn off your lights for one hour in support of Earth Hour.

This is the fourth year the world observes Earth Hour– a grassroots effort that started in Australia back in 2007 and is now backed by the World Wildlife Fund.  While some organizations, businesses and universities in and around the District will be turning off their lights for an hour and pledging their support to the cause, we as a city are sorely lacking in awareness.

Some of you may be thinking, “Why would turning my non-essential lights for just one hour signify that I support climate change awareness anyway?”  This is a valid response, so I please ask you to visualize what an entire community would actively gain from turning its lights off for one hour: not just a welcome distraction from the visual noise of lights, but also a concrete example of how wasteful as individuals we are–let alone as businesses and communities.

Imagine a neighborhood like Capitol Hill spending some time in the dark with family, friends, loved ones, and slowing down to get a glimpse of the stars.

Imagine taking a walk and making a game out of counting how many houses have all their lights on. (Alcohol optional)

Imagine DC’s landmarks joining the Earth Hour movement, so perhaps next year we get to see the lights of the Capitol and the Washington Monument turned off for an hour. In years past San Franciscans have gotten to see the Golden Gate Bridge go dark; as many around the world will get to see beloved and iconic landmarks go dark for an hour as well.

Feel like doing something fun and meaningful for an hour?  Click this link to learn more and sign up!

And once you’ve turned the lights back on, perhaps you want to bring the global awareness home?  Then how about attending a meeting of the Capitol Hill Energy Co-op on April 13th?  They aim to address environmental issues and awareness in our urban environment, and can help educate you and guide you through the process of obtaining photovoltaic cells for your roof or to heat your water.