What if I told you that one hour of your day can make a HUGE impact? In one hour, you can be a catalyst for positive environmental change in the community and beyond?
Well, turns out that one hour really can make a difference. Founded by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) in 2007, what started in Sydney, Australia has now become a global movement called Earth Hour. The mission for Earth Hour is simple: to help combat the climate crisis we are currently facing, we have to build global awareness and foster change. Currently, we’re losing our natural ecosystems at an exponential rate, so change needs to start NOW.
This yearly event is coming up on March 27 at 8:30 p.m. (EDT), and you can get involved! Not sure where to start? We’ve got you! Check out our list of five things to do during Earth Hour this year.
Watch the Earth Hour virtual spotlight
WWF is taking this initiative to the next level this year. During Earth Hour, tune into the official Earth Hour Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or YouTube page for a must-watch video showcasing the difference that one-hour light-free can make and share your experience online to spark a meaningful and necessary conversation.
Have a dark dinner
Have you ever been to a dimly lit restaurant where the ambience is fantastic? Well, there’s no reason you can’t recreate this experience at home. Grab your favourite scented candle and cook up a quick and delicious meal to enjoy with your family, roommates, or social circle!
Watch a movie or documentary
Movies are always better in the dark. Whether you want to catch a scare with a horror movie or catch up on your favourite TV show, there are tons of options for fun things to watch in the dark. Plus, if you’re looking to learn more about our climate and wildlife crisis, check out the WWF Netflix documentary series, Our Planet.
Chill out with a yoga session
Yoga is a well-known practice for helping reduce stress and promote relaxation. And, doing it in the dark can help you achieve serenity even quicker. With the everyday hustle and bustle of student life, we could all use some time to relax, meditate, and destress. Use this hour to take time for yourself and participate in a relaxing yoga routine. Looking for some workout ideas? Check out fun ways to replace your Humber gym workout at home!
Go on a socially distanced hike
Just because we’re staying home, doesn’t mean we have to stay home…kind of. If the weather permits, get some fresh air and grab your family, friends or roommates for a socially distanced hike. With the weather starting to get nicer, getting fresh air is the perfect way to spend our days. Hike to your nearest park, take a stroll by the lake—the possibilities are endless and it’s a great way to take a step back to enjoy all that nature has to offer!
Whatever you choose to do during Earth Hour, take this time for yourself to reflect on the little things you can do to make a difference in your everyday lives. Whether that’s making zero-waste swaps in your routine, opting for reusable menstrual products, repurposing unused items, or just being mindful of our food and daily waste — the little things do matter and make a big impact.
Change starts within. So, start today!
Humber's Office of Sustainability 