Turn it Off

Certainly these are dark times. But occasionally a bit of darkness can be a metaphorical light at the end of the tunnel.

At 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 28, 2009 the world might appear a bit dimmer. This will be all thanks to the initiative called 'Earth Hour,' which encourages people world-wide to cease unnecessary energy consumption for one hour.

The project was launched by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF, not to be confused with the wrestling federation) in 2007 exclusively in Sydney, Australia. An estimated 2.2 million household participated in the event.

Not to be outdone down under, 35 countries joined the effort in 2008. Iconic landmarks such as the Empire State Building, Golden Gate Bridge, and the Sydney Opera House participated by cutting non-essential power during the event. Approximately 36 million people donated their darkness to the cause.

The results were evident:

• Christchurch, New Zeland had a 13% drop in electrical drain.
  
• Toronto, Canada saved 8.7% electricity.
• Melborne, Australia saved 10.1%.
  
• The entire country of Ireland reduced electrical demand by 1.5% during the time period.
• Dubai reported a 2.4% decrease in energy use.
• There was a new moon, so it was completely dark.
  

These results are expected to be surpassed this year. Eighty-two countries and over 2,000 cities have declared themselves as 'committed' to the cause. WWF has stated that their goal is to claim 1 billion participants at the end of the day.

To promote their concept, www.earthhour.org puts forth the concept that turning off your lights during Earth Hour is like casting a vote for Earth. Apparently, Earth is running against Global Warming in some intergalactic presidential race for supreme control of the universe.

I don't know anything about Global Warming's platform, but I don't think he would make a very good leader.