I just received the following from one of my Bond Grrls in Melbourne, Australia. If you check out Google.com’s website today, too, it has a black background — in “celebration” of Earth Hour.
From: merr<snip>
Hi All,
Did you know that Earth Hour takes place today? What is this? Well, apparently the idea started in Sydney last year, where between 8-9pm on 29th March, businesses and individual households turn off all their lights for one hour, to become a little more aware of the huge amount of power our daily lives consume.I’m writing this in the middle of “Earth Hour” (8.40pm Melbourne time), so I’m attempting to type by candle-light, which is a little difficult, particularly since the only candles I could find are scented ones, so I have “coffee” on one side and “ocean” on the other. I think I’ll have to invest in some candle-sticks for next year!
Last year about 2 million people in Australia participated, and this year I think it’ll be much more (it has received lots of publicity in the newspapers, etc). Many cities around the world are also taking part, including San Francisco, I think. Lots of buildings in cities are turning off all the lights for an hour, which is very cool.
I snuck a look out my door, and it seems that most people in my street have turned out their lights too (or maybe they’re just out…). I’ve also heard that some restaurants are taking part, so everyone will be eating by candle-light for an hour. So, if you think of it, maybe you can have your own “earth-hour” tonight, between 8-9pm. Its actually quite fun!
Love and Happy “Earth Hour” — Merr
Just a quick addition: I just read that last year it was hoped the energy consumption in Sydney might drop by 5% (during Earth Hour), but it actually dropped by 10%! Isn’t that incredible?! Even the Sydney Harbour Bridge & Opera House will be in darkness for the hour. Cool!