When people ask why lights are being turned off between 8:30 p.m and 9:30 p.m. on March 27, World Wildlife Fund would have succeeded in achieving one main objective in holding Earth Hour—awareness on climate change.
The environmental organization created Earth Hour three years ago to put a spotlight on climate change and urge everyone, especially political leaders, to act.
Some Sun Peaks businesses are planning on joining Earth Hour. Bottoms Bar and Grill will turn off all non-essential lights and allow clients to enjoy an hour by candlelight. There’ll also be a candlelight dinner at the Delta Sun Peaks Resort’s M Room. The menu will highlight food items with locally grown ingredients developed through sustainable partnerships with area farmers, complimenting Earth Hour’s environmental theme.
While an hour each year won’t literally save the planet, Earth Hour is just a means to an end. Not only does it drum up awareness and give people an opportunity to take a symbolic stand, it also creates a community of people who like to take concrete steps to reduce their environmental footprint. It promotes a shift in mentality.
Canadians are rising up to the challenge. People are finding creative ways to spend an hour in the dark. Not only that, they’re pledging little changes to their lifestyle, a move that’s both symbolic and concrete towards a greater respect for the environment. So far, 2,794 individuals have submitted online pledges.
These acts include recycling, switching off or unplugging electrical items when they’re not in use, washing clothes in cold water or using compact fluorescent light bulbs.
Facebook fans of Earth Hour explain why they switch off each year. One lady posted “I do it now for my children and grandchildren and teach them we CAN make a difference!” Another individual explained “I recycle, donate . . . with the hopes that future generations will be able to witness the magnificent creatures and landscapes that I have in my lifetime. I, too, believe if we all do something, it will make a difference!”
Help us bring you more local news
SPIN has been able to serve Sun Peaks as its sole news source for over 20 years thanks to the overwhelming support of our community. Join over 126 of your neighbours and become a monthly or yearly member so that we can continue to regularly publish the digital newsletters and stories our readers rely on.
