Earth Hour 2009 has already happened in many countries—at 8:30 p.m. local time on Saturday, March 28, 2009, people are the world are shutting off their lights. In some cases, people are turning off all their power, in a respectful tribute to the earth and as a demonstration for the power we as a single person have, especially when united with other individuals doing the same thing.
"This year, exceeding the wildest dreams of its organisers, participation swelled to an estimated 1 billion people in 83 countries. Of them, 47 were developing economies, up from nine last year," SMH says.
"As China joined Earth Hour for the first time, Beijing’s Bird’s Nest Stadium and other Olympic venues blacked out, as did office towers in Shanghai.
"India, too, was a first-timer. After a campaign by the Government in Delhi and the Bollywood star Aamir Khan, lights went out in Mumbai and across the subcontinent."
Earth Hour started in Sydney, Australia in 2007, and by 2008, included the participation of over 350 cities around the world. The WWF, the organizers of the event, anticipate around 3,000 cities will power down for Earth Hour 2009.
The gallery shows pictures of Earth Hour 2009 around the world. A stunning Earth Hour 2009 Flickr pool can be seen here.
Stay tuned for more updates, and feel free to submit images from your own city as a response!
Image sources: MonstersandCritics | SMH | AFP | San Pedro Sun | slikamoe
Earthwide Eco Statements
829 Landmarks Around the World Switch Off Power for Earth Hour 2009
Trend Themes
1. Global Participation - Earth Hour 2009 saw an estimated 1 billion people in 83 countries participate, presenting an opportunity for businesses to cater to the growing demand for sustainability.
2. First-time Participants - The inclusion of China and India in Earth Hour 2009 opens up opportunities for innovations in energy-saving technologies in these emerging markets.
3. Increasing City Participation - The growing number of cities, with an anticipated 3,000 joining Earth Hour 2009, highlights the potential for businesses to tap into the market for eco-friendly products and services.
Industry Implications
1. Energy Conservation - The Earth Hour movement presents opportunities for the energy conservation industry to develop innovative solutions and technologies that encourage people to save power.
2. Sustainable Technology - The global participation in Earth Hour 2009 emphasizes the need for advancements in sustainable technology, creating opportunities for businesses to develop and offer eco-friendly products.
3. Emerging Markets - The inclusion of China and India in Earth Hour 2009 provides opportunities for businesses to tap into these emerging markets with eco-friendly solutions and initiatives.