Earth Hour 2012 – It’s More Than 60 Minutes In The Dark

When I ask friends if they will be participating in Earth Hour this years, the response is often a mix of “maybe” and “my kids would hate me for that.” Turning the power off at home from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m. tomorrow night may seem, in the scheme of everyday life, to be a shallow act. But, an hour in the dark can be an incredible connective force.

First, as the World Wildlife Fund  folks remind us, it’s a collective display of commitment to a better future for the planet.  Think what can be achieved when we all come together for a common cause.

Second, and this is the one that resonates most deeply with me, we give our kids a moment of nostalgia in which we connect differently than most families in today’s society take a moment to do. Whether we sit around playing games, singing songs, talking a bit or even eating dinner by candlelight, it’s a time of connection – and even a bit of fascination (because really when does anyone sit around at night without lights on) at the simple rarity of it all.

While Canucks and Calgary fans may put up a bit of a fight as Earth Hour lands smack dab in the second period of their game tomorrow night, I’ve simply reminded my husband that maybe the quality family time is worth missing 60 minutes of Hockey Night In Canada (gasp). Surely the game will NOT be over at 9:31 and we can have imparted something mindful to the tiny people.

Talking shop about climate change and environmental degradation to the kid crowd is like asking them to sit still – the information and concepts seem nearly undeliverable. And, realistically, I’m not suggesting you delve into a deep and meaningful discussion with your kids about the science or the societal challenges or even the profound effects that consumption is having on the Earth. They need those moments, in the living room, lit by candles, playing board games, singing songs, whatever, where life is simple. That’s a home run.

For folks who want to dig in at that level, it’s great to see that those tough talks are being made much more accessible this year too.

Check out The Lorax’s challenge for Earth Hour. (Yes, I get that Hollywood wants you to spend the cash to go see the movie too. But, let’s step beyond the obvious marketing ploy).

To celebrate Earth Hour, Dr. Seuss’ legendary character The Lorax has promised to turn his moustache green for a whole day on Saturday (March 31).

According to The Lorax, “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not,” so now is your chance to do something. If 500 children promise to switch their lights off for Earth Hour, The Lorax will turn his moustache green for a whole day on 31 March.

To take part in The Lorax’s challenge for Earth Hour families can visit www.youtube.com/earthhour  and click on the link to “Accept” the challenge. Then make sure you turn out your lights at 8:30 p.m.

Easy, fun and inspiring.

So, when you’re thinking about your day tomorrow and what to do with the family in the evening, remember Earth Hour and how a 60-minute investment in simplicity can change the course of the planet (and give your kids a moment in time that’s the stuff of memories) forever.

Tags: Culture, Earth Hour, evnvironment, family, featured, green, Kids, Our Big Earth Media Co., Robin Rivers, society, stewardship

Category: THINK GREEN