Earth Hour was conceived in Sydney, Australia, in 2004. It began as an idea from the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) of Australia as way to encourage Australians and people around the world to be more aware of and become partners in the effort to combat climate change. In 2005, the project was named "The Big Flick," referring to the action of turning off or flicking the switch to extinguish electric lights. By 2006, it was renamed "Earth Hour" to impress upon people that the effect of this simple action is so much more than just being without lights for 60 minutes. It means ensuring sustainability for future generations.The first Earth Hour was brought to life in Sydney on March 31, 2007. Back then, 2,000 businesses and 2.2 million people in this bustling city turned off their lights to participate in the first ever Earth Hour celebration. In April of the same year, cities all over the world began expressing interest in the event and began asking how they could join Earth Hour.
In March 29, 2008, just two years after the first Earth Hour was inaugurated, cities in 88 countries all over the world--including ours--simultaneously turned off their lights for one hour and showed their leaders, neighbors, and families that they were serious about tackling the issues of climate change.
Today, the Philippines takes part once again in this global initiative to make the world a better place. At 8:30 PM, we encourage you to switch off your lights and become an active participant in combating climate change.
[Click here for FN's list of 15 things to do during Earth Hour]
Read these articles to learn of more ways you can help save the Earth:
- Family Fun: How to Teach Your Kids to Be Eco-Friendly
- 10 Things You May Already Be Doing To Save The Earth. Really!
- Going Green: 20 Ways to Love the Planet
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(Photo courtesy of EarthHour.org)
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