Earth Hour is a global awareness initiative that aims to put a focus on environmental and wildlife issues that are currently plaguing the globe. The event, which started in Australia in 2008, was initially conceived to show support towards the fight against climate change. Since then, the movement has grown into so much more.

More than a symbolic event, Earth Hour has brought forth real changes through crowdfunding several environmental initiatives including planting half a million trees in Uganda, following severe deforestation; lobbying a bill in Russian congress that aims to protect the country’s water resources from oil spills; as well as helping protect 3.4 million hectares of Argentinian seas.

At its core, Earth Hour is all about small steps and turning them into big life changes. To make this year’s Earth Hour more impactful, below are small ways to make your everyday life more conscientious:

Reduce Your Carbon Footprint

One of the easiest and best ways to reduce your carbon footprint is by using public transportation or riding a bike as much as you can.

Save on Energy

Phantom energy is the energy consumed by electronic appliances when they remain plugged in after being switched off. Truth be told, phantom energy contributes 10% of your household’s energy consumption. More than minimizing your use of these types of devices, you can help save energy and reduce your electric bill by simply unplugging your appliances after use.

Minimize Plastic Consumption

As they say, reduce, reuse, and recycle. This statement rings very true for the use of plastic. There are several ways plastic negatively affects the environment. For one, plastic takes a LONG time to decompose and it usually ends up in landfills. Moreover, the production of plastic can be toxic. It is harmful to surrounding vegetation and can affect groundwater.

Spread the Word 

Earth hour is a symbol of commitment to environmental issues from millions of people around the globe. Spreading the word and encouraging your peers to participate and make small life changes can have a big impact. Be that spark that changes your family’s and friends’ behavior.

At GCC, we hope that the hour spent in darkness was enough to start a conversation within your household on how you could help protect nature, conserve wildlife, and be a good steward to mother earth.

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