It is that time of the year again when the whole world switches off lights by choice to observe Earth Hour. On Saturday, the city too will join in the global movement. Those concerned about global warming can participate in the event by switching off all non essential lights for an hour from 8:30 pm.
Earth Hour, a movement organised by World Wide Fund (WWF) is one of the biggest movements to raise awareness about climate change. In the tenth year of its observation WWF Kerala chapter has a slew of programmes lined up. WWF conducts a cyclathon in association with Indus Cycling embassy at Manaveeyam Veedhi and a walkathon in Museum and Zoo compound at 6:30 am. The main event starts at 7 pm. It involves a switch off and candle light vigil at the Band Stand, Museum and Zoo compound from 8.30 to 9.30pm with cultural programmes like ‘Tholpavakoothu’.
‘Go rooftop solar’
With different countries choosing different themes to celebrate earth hour, India is focusing on using solar energy as a source of power. Renjan Mathew Varghese, state director for Kerala, WWF-India said Earth Hour is more relevant for Kerala aince it is highly dependent on hydel power plants to meet its energy needs and there is no scope for any more major hydel plants because of the huge environmental costs. “So the only option for the state is to make a major shift to renewables and also adopt energy conservation in every aspect of life,” he said.
Landmarks in India like India Gate, Gateway of India, the Rashtrapati Bhawan and the Lotus Temple will join the Earth Hour. In Kerala, Earth Hour 2016 is supported by Department of Environment and Climate Change, Kerala State Electricity Board Ltd, Energy Management Centre, among others.
Earth Hour Vs India -Pakistan T 20 match
This year Earth Hour coincides with the India Pakistan ICC T 20 match. One can still support Earth Hour without missing the telecast. WWF exhorts cricket fans to join in the programme by organising a common screening
What is Earth Hour
Started in 2007 as a lights off event in Sydney, Earth Hour is one of the biggest movements to raise awareness about climate change. It has seen a participation of as many as 172 countries till now. The event is held worldwide towards the end of March annually, observed around the spring and autumn equinoxes to encourage the public to turn off their non-essential lights for one hour as a commitment to the planet. Earth Hour is an attempt at inspiring public to make lifestyle changes to live sustainably.
You can be a Volunteer
City folks can spread the Earth Hour message by distributing posters and banners in the locality or school or college. They can download WWF’s Earth Hour kit. Take the pledge to go solar.
How to observed the hour
Residents associations, corporates can: