Earth Hour Canada 2011
I’m not a supporter of Earth Hour.
I know, that may come as a total shocker considering that (a) I have a Doctorate in Resource Management and Environmental Studies and (b) I teach environmental politics. I just don’t think that Earth Day has the meaning it should have. I understand that it’s meant as a public statement, as a demonstration that we do indeed think about our energy consumption. But before you go out in that romantic Earth Hour-themed date, stop and reflect on whether your energy usage patterns are sustainable or not. Whether every day and every hour is Earth Hour for you. For me, participating in a public demonstration (and God knows I have, since I am a big ‘Wear Pink Day’ supporter) means that I do whatever I support publicly, ALL THE TIME.
If I showcase my repudiation of bullying I do it every single day (whether I wear pink or not). So, my point is – I’m all for thinking about sustainable sources of energy. And you’re more than welcome to participate in Earth Hour (Saturday March 26th from 8:30pm to 9:30pm). But I hope at the end of the day it serves to make you reflect on unsustainable patterns of energy consumption. If it achieves that purpose, then by all means, go ahead and celebrate Earth Hour.
A listing of events and ways to participate is on the Earth Hour Canada website.
