“Earth Hour: what is the meaning of the action and how to take part in it?

People like to live in comfort, but we rarely think about how cars, factories and constantly running gadgets affect the planet. Pollution of air and water, extinction of animals and plants – just a small part of what our carelessness leads to. Everyone can do their part to make the world a better place. For example, sort garbage, give things a second life or take part in Earth Hour.

Member of the Federal Council of the Green Ecological Party, expert of the Russian Gas Society

“The Earth Hour campaign is a noble initiative. Its goal is to attract public attention to the problems of ecology and climate change”.

There are a lot of different environmental problems nowadays. It is alarming that none of the negative trends has been reversed. All environmental crises are worsening. According to the latest report of the United Nations Environment Program, we now extract and use 106 billion tons of natural resources per year. In the 1970s, that number was at 30, and at the beginning of the 20th century it was 10.

What is Earth Hour?

Earth Hour was first held in Sydney in 2007. Since then, it has grown into a major annual event that unites people, companies and governments in more than 180 countries around the world.

Famous buildings and monuments are plunged into darkness for an hour, reminding us of the importance of environmental stewardship. Among them: Eiffel Tower (Paris), Colosseum (Rome), Opera House (Sydney), Empire State Building (New York), Golden Gate Bridge (San Francisco), Royal Palace (Stockholm), City Hall (London).

Russia first took part in the action in 2009. In the capital, the City Hall, Moscow State University on Sparrow Hills, the Presidium of the Russian Academy of Sciences, and Europe Square were turned off. Every year the action is gaining popularity. This time “Earth Hour” will be held on March 23 at 20:30 local time.

The action has a symbolic character. It shows how quite a large number of people can sacrifice a minimal amount of comfort for the sake of solving environmental problems. Man is accustomed to take nature’s gifts without thinking. And as much as he can take. With this action we have at least 60 minutes to think about it. And this is already an achievement.

The scale of Earth Hour is too small for us to expect any effect from it. It has a microscopic effect on reducing greenhouse emissions. We waste more electricity as mobile devices move to 3G, then 4G, 5G, and so on. But a reminder that there are a lot of people out there for whom environmental sustainability isn’t just an empty word doesn’t hurt.

How to take part?

To take part in the action is very simple. You should start with the main point – turn off all unnecessary electrical appliances and lights in the house for one hour. This time can be devoted to yourself, family or friends: to be alone, exchange stories in the company or play board games by candlelight. Not only will you strengthen relationships, but you will also support the global conservation movement.

Some community organizations create special events and lectures on the topic of sustainability. Attending them is a great way to learn more about how you can help the planet.

Earth Hour is an opportunity to rethink your habits and make more environmentally friendly lifestyle choices. Every step we take to respect the planet’s resources affects our future.

Why is it important to protect the environment?

Getting people involved in initiatives and incorporating eco habits into everyday life is a key rule to protect our planet. Why it is important.

The earth has limited natural resources. Without responsible use, we risk exhausting them. Participating in environmental programs helps reduce consumption and contributes to the preservation of biodiversity.

Climate change is one of the most serious problems today. Taking action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and supporting sustainable development will slow some of these changes.

Environmental pollution directly affects our health. Clean air, water and soil are essential to sustain life. By taking an active role in protecting the environment, we care not only for the health of the planet, but also for our own.

How do you implement environmental habits?

This process may seem very difficult at first glance. In fact, the gradual implementation of the habit is the key to success. It should be done in a stress-free manner.

For example, a good starting point is to participate in a cleanup day once a month. Such events help to clean the nature from garbage, increase responsibility. Also here you are likely to find new friends and like-minded people.

Further eco-habits can be introduced gradually and in everyday life. Start with simple things – refuse single-use plastic, sort your trash, use reusable bags and water bottles, replace regular light bulbs with LEDs.

Slowly move towards more conscious consumption. Buy food without unnecessary packaging, favor seasonal fruits and vegetables, reduce waste, and try to repair things rather than throwing them away the first time they break.

In addition, walk more often and use a bicycle when you can. Such habits are not only good for the environment, but also contribute to your physical health.

Also, don’t forget the importance of self-education. The more you learn about the environment, the more informed decisions you can make on a daily basis. Try sharing useful information and your experiences with friends, family.

Change starts with each of us. Remember that even the smallest steps are important. The gradual introduction of ecological habits will contribute to the preservation of our planet for future generations.