Earth Hour 28 March 2009 Saturday
It started in Sydney in 2007 when 2.2 million homes and businesses switched off their lights for one hour in a bid to show support for action against global warming. This year Earth Hour aims to get 1 billion people to switch off their lights on 28 March 2009 Saturday between 8.30pm and 9.30pm.
In Singapore several programmes are being organised in the heartlands in order to encourage Singaporeans to embrace this world wide initiative. Refer to http://earthhoursingapore.blogspot.com for more details.
What are your thoughts on this initiative? Is it truly going to change mindsets? Do you think such an initiative will make any impact on government policies? Will you be participating in Earth Hour 2009?
Please share your thoughts by posting them as comments to this blog by 22 March 2009 Sunday. We will continue to discuss Earth Hour in class next week when lessons start again. In the meantime, have a great holiday!
Cheers
Ms Rani
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I think that this initiative may not directly change people's mindset to take action against global warming. However, at least it lets people know that they can play a part in preventing global warming. Therefore, little by little, the people would be encouraged to play a part in protecting our home, Earth. I will surely take part in this initiative. :D
ReplyDeletei dont think they should do this .
ReplyDeleteif they wanted to really stop global warming then they should just let the people get used to the darkness at the suggested time while the country just shuts down the main generator . then everyone's light wont be lit .
maybe they'll use candles, who knows ?
HAHAHA . but then yeah , it reaches their target of 1 billion people switching off their lights . MUAHAHAHAHA .
-Weixiang , Ker edition . R.N. 29 .
i think that this programme won't directly help to change the mindsets of the people. this programme mainly conveys this message to the people: save elctricity, preventing global warming. However, this pogramme also conveys the important message of how important it is to prevent global warming from worsening.
ReplyDeleteAt least, this programme creates more awareness among people about the global warming situation and also tells people that we can play a role in preventing global waring too.
This programme may also encourage some people to become global warming activists after they have learnt the importance of preventing global warming through this programme.
This programme also shows the government's initiative to prevent global warming and it is a good sign, telling us that our government is concerned about our well being.
I think Singaporeans will be receptive to this programme slowly when they get to learn more about preventing global warming.
I also suggest that the government fix a day where the whole country switches off the lights for one hour. This may help to encourage more people to become global warming activists and it is also more fun if everyone does it together.
- Dorothy Yip(5) class 309.
I find that this is a unique method to convey the message of saving the Earth. By switching off our lights for one hour, a lot of fuel will be conserved. People may also realize the importance of the earth’s resources, and be more mindful not to waste them. The initiative will have both a direct and indirect impact on the earth.
ReplyDeleteThis initiative may also increase awareness among people, which may in turn make an impact on government policies.
The website also said that this is “Unlike any election in history, it is not about what country you’re from, but instead, what planet you’re from.”
This initiative will tell us that it is our responsibility to save the earth, and by seeing ourselves as people from the planet earth, instead of people of a country, we will feel a sense of belonging to our planet earth and do our part in saving it.
A house divided against itself cannot stand. By bringing people of all countries together in this project, there will be more people involved in saving our earth. With more people being in this together, the initiative would be an even greater success.
Of course, this initiative also has its disadvantage, this being that it may be quite inconvenient to switch off our lights for one whole hour at night. However, if people are dedicated enough to save our planet earth, they probably wouldn’t mind doing such a simple act.
As for me, I would gladly take part in this initiative as a vote for earth.
Hopefully, this initiative would turn out to be a success and we would be one step closer to saving the earth from global warming.
♥ Evelyn (6) 309
I think it is a good way to start to let people know what they can do to prevent global warming. Although getting one billion people to switch off their lights for 1 hour on 28th March will save fuel, however it is only for that one hour. People tend to forget about these after the event. However, it is a great way to start changing the people's mindset as they know the problems caused by global warming and with such a large scale event, people will start to know the importance of conserving energy. I would participate in this event as it would help in saving earth and let people be aware of this and will continue to remind people to conserve energy. Hopefully this will help let us be a step closer to saving earth.
ReplyDeleteRonghua(30) 310
I feel that by getting people to switch off the lights for one hour is a good strategy to prevent global warming from worsening. It is a good start to let the people know that their actions play a part in the place they live.
ReplyDeleteI don't think that it will change the peoples' mindset as this only occurs once a year and people wouldn't think of it after that. I think that there should be more policies by the government to further emphasize on the harmful effects that are caused by global warming such as having workshops and more posters on conserving electricity.
I will participate in this event to show my support against global warming.
It will create an impact on the government's policies as the people would have further understanding about what the government is doing to help save the Earth. Thus,it might be a motivation for them to participate in the event and perhaps other subsequent ones.
peiqin (13) 310
Firstly,i feel that this initiative is very useful in raising awareness on how small details as such can actually help out our earth.I also find that 2.2 million people switching off their lights for that one hour shows a lot about how much the people of the earth acutally care for it.Furthurmore I feel this event is sucessful as the people who participate show that that they will do their part on saving the earth.Thus they will conserve as much as they can even when this event is not in progress.However,I feel that the target of 1 billion people participating in this event is quite unrealistic to a certain extent.
ReplyDeleteSecondly,I feel that this event can truly help to change mindets as though the event only occurs for a while it is a start in action against global warming.This event can possibly change people's mindset on whether we should help the earth and on how doing things as such can actually play a part in saving out world.
Thirdly,i feel that this event will have a positive impact on our government.This event may impact the government to come up with eco-friendly policies and conduct events on how to save our earth.
Lastly,I will participate in this event if possible to show my support for action against global warming.I also hope that this event will reach it seemingly unachievable target of one billion people participating.
This can cause a lot inconvinences. Imagine you came back from school or work. and u have a number of project to complete. and you dont have lights!! D: how sad. and you can hardly do anything in that condition where you cannot read anything or do something that require you to see.now u dont have lights. but maybe you would want to go to sleep with your aircon on to the full during that hour. [okay maybe thats another thing.]
ReplyDeletei dont think this is good! if people really wants to save the earth, they can take initiative to use lesser electricity each day. maybe like 5 mins each day instead of having it all at a go which might have to stop ur activity.
how is this going to change people's mindset? by reminding them electricity plays a part in global warming?how will people be ENCOURAGED to take part in this event? just because the government or some organisation says so? it will mostly be the people that is "i am against global warming and willing to play a part" participating.therefore. i think this is not quite a good event to CHANGE people's mindset.
although this event can really helps to save alot on the electricity and perhaps a little little bit on saving the earth from global warming. but to actually save the earth from global warming is something on a long term. unless the government enforce some law [which is not very possible] it is hard to keep telling people to stop contributing to global warming.
No wait, infact everyone will contribute to it in a way or another!
Jieyi(13) from 309
feels that she is contradicting herself more as she type on and on..
Personally, I feel encouraged, at home; my family always tries to use less than 3 lights. I have been trying to convince my friend the need of reduce energy use. Now I feel that I’m clearly not the only one who loves nature and willing to protect it. Switching of the light for 1h might not contribute much to the saving of energy; it definitely will inspire people to do something to change their habit of switching all the light at home. I feel that people would be willing to protect nature if they truly love nature. After all, love, sometimes responsibility, strive us to protect something. Government could emphasize more on the bonds between nature and human. More people wound appreciate the beauty of nature.
ReplyDeleteTalking about saving energy, I feel that school air-conditioners should not be switched on till 8.30 or 9.00 to ensure we have some fresh air. Also, air-cons should be switched off 20 min before recess and lunch, and leave the windows open during recess and lunch. I think the school really should consider this see the health problems caused by inadequate fresh air supply, such as sleepiness.
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteI personally do not think it would help in preventing further harm to Mother Earth. So what if they switch off all their lights and go around telling people "Hey, I participated in this."? After the whole event, they would most probably be going on with their "normal" lives. Take note of the inverted commas. By saying normal lives, I mean those that waste electricity. It is true that some of them had been saving electricity. However, there are some people who would be hypocrites. They only do so when people tell them to, or to gain attention.
ReplyDeleteI think that this initiative shows that by switching off your lights for merely an hour, it is a small contribution against global warming. Many people feel that individually, they are not able to contribute much to the environment especially now that global warming is affecting us greatly. With this worldwide movement, not only can each individual do their part, there are also many other people who are doing the same thing which adds up to a large contribution!
ReplyDeleteHence, I feel that this initiative would ultimately achieve its goal of saving a large amount of electricity and gain support but not to the extent of changing people's mindsets. or making an impact on government policies.
Lastly, I would be participating in Earth Hour 2009!
Sec 309 (18)
This world-wide event is pretty useful, given that the human population does not even think about saving electricity. This might just motivate the people to do their tiny part for the prevention of global warming. Even though 1 hour might be pretty short, it's a pretty big amount saved considering the massive number of people taking part in the event.
ReplyDeleteThrough this event, some people might just think twice about busting their electricity bills, and the others might still feign ignorance and continue on with their pathetic lifes.
I quite sure I will be participating in this event. If I remember to.
-Josh[31] 309'09
I believe that this annual Earth Hour event will serve its purpose of advocating participants from all walks of life to conserve our precious natural resources and protecting Mother Nature in the long run.
ReplyDeleteSince the 21st century, more emphasis was placed on reducing the imminent impacts of global warming and events such as Earth Hour had surfaced. On a larger scale, conventions such as the Kyoto Protocol and the Earth Summit strives to stabilize greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere such that it would prevent detrimental interferences with our climate system, which would in turn result in dire consequences if such were to happen.
The Earth Hour aims to convey a simple message to the population, that as a united population, every minute effort contributed by each one of us would turn into a great collective strength which will benefit everyone around the globe.
As an individual, we must not belittle the tiny efforts contributed by ourselves. Instead of adopting an apathetic approach towards protecting Mother Nature, we should channel our energy to actively participate in events campaigning for the protection of Mother Nature from Global Warming. The perception of many individuals has to change in time to come, or the future generation will be the ones suffering by the creations of our hands – Global Warming.
-Garrick
First and foremost, I would definately be participating in the Earth Hour 2009. However, I personally do not think that this event would help lessen Global Warming in any way. This whole event would be just another excuse for a party, an overnight stay, or just another day to relax and have a dinner at home. I do not see how turning off the lights for an hour would help people think twice about how they are affecting Global Warming.
ReplyDeleteI think the Government's efforts are commendable, but I also doubt many people knows about this event. Some poorer people might even be living their everyday lives without lights, but they are not contributing much anyway. I feel that this event is just to put Singapore on the list to be environmentally friendly. With all the heavy machinery and factories releasing harmful gases to the surroundings, I do not how turning off the lights for an hour will make up for that.
Firstly, i would definitely participate in Earth Hour 2009. As a Singaporean, we should support the efforts the Government has made to make the world a better place to live in, especially if it is something like fighting against global warming.
ReplyDeleteHowever, I feel that the government has not done much in spreading across the message of Earth Hour 2009 and what it is about. Many are still clueless about its purpose, the date and time of which the campaign will be carried out, and some do not even know what is Earth Hour. Without the basic knowledge that we need about the campaign, it would be impossible to get everyone to cooperate and help to remedy this situation.
Also, I think that this event will not help in lessening global warming. With the current technology in Singapore, releasing harmful gases and other things into the air, it would have already done a lot of harm to the environment, and i believe that just by switching off the lights for one hour will not help much in reducing global warming.
On the other hand, this can also inform people on how important saving the environment would be if the whole country cooperates. This will instill in people a sense of cooperation and would convey a message that the world needs help. People will then realise the importance of it all and join in to reduce global warming.
Personally, I think that this is a good start to let people know that they have a role to play in preventing Global Warming. It encourages people to be more aware of how important it is to lessen Global Warming. However, I think that not everyone knows about this event and will be enthusiastic about it.
ReplyDeleteI doubt that this will change the mindset of people as it is only for that one hour that everyone participates and after that period of time, most people will forget all about it and continue their lives as usual. But like what I have said, it is a good way to get everyone to know that they are one important role in the whole preventing global warming thing.
Of course I would participate in this event!
Shuning(20)309
first and foremost, i will definitely take part in this event to show my support to save the earth, even for only 1 hour
ReplyDeletesecondly, i think this event is a good start for singaporeans to help play a part in saving the earth by switching off their electricity supplys in that 1 hour. It can raise their awareness of how global warming is affecting the earth, and how they can do thier part in their daily lifes. This can convey a message to the whole world to help to save the earth.
thirdly, i think this will let the government to come up with more eco-friendly policies, to take a bigger step in saving the earth.
however, i think this event is not widely advertised and some people may not even not that there is even such thing. Thus it may not effectively let singaporeans know about saving the earth.
I think that it won't directly or immediately change the mindsets of people but I think that this is a good start. I will be participating in this event provided that I can remember it.
ReplyDeleteSara (15) 309
I suppose there is always two sides to this issue. First and foremost, it is a very commendable effort of the government to initiate Earth Hour. However, just like Live Earth, it isn't always thought of as being useful to many people.
ReplyDeleteTake Live Earth for example, it was a 24 hour event in which artiste perform to create awareness for global warming. But then again, think of how much electricity could be saved if there wasn't such an event.
Back to Earth Hour, even if people were to switch off their electricity for that one hour, everything is still going to revert back to normal after that one hour. Factories are still going to continue emitting carbon etc, and cars are still going to continue emitting carbon monoxide.
However, I'm sure that the electricity that hasn't been used in that one hour is still going to help, in one way or another.
To me, Earth Hour is an applaudable endeavor to show support in combatting global warming. Even so, it will still not truly change people's mindset in helping to save the Earth. I guess that's what you call the "don't-care" attitude in people.
Nonetheless, I'll still try to participate in Earth Hour.
Xie Yuhan (15)
ReplyDelete310
I think this is really good effort, as at least, there are actually programmes that are being organised to raise awareness on global warming in Singapore.
Merely switching off the lights do not require much effort, so i guess if Singaporeans are enthusiastic about this, they would probably just switch off their lights for the sake of switching off their lights, participating for fun or just to support this movement for the mere one hour.
Some might get the idea of saving the Earth or being eco-friendly but they would probably just take it in mind and not do anything (in the long run) to save the Earth like recycling etc. I guess Singaporeans are lazy and no one would actually be SO environmental friendly (unless you're a green freak) to purposely make the effort to save the environment as it requires time and effort.
However, if the whole Singapore takes the initiative to switch off their lights for that mere one hour, of course much electricity would be saved and we would defenitely benefit from it.
There probably would not be 360 degrees changing policies to go green, but maybe more efforts/programmes on being environmentally friendly would surface or (i hope) the government would make Earth Hour an annual(permanent) event.
Advertisements on global warming/ Earth Hour should be broadcasted more often to remind Singaporeans what our Earth is turning into and of course encourage them to play a small part in being environmental friendly like simply taking showers instead of baths etc.
And yes, i would want to participate in the event as it seems cool hahaha. Just kidding.
I think the programme is a creative one, but it may not change mindsets as some people may just want to follow their usual routine or lifestyle, instead of changing it. Perhaps, some may think that only 1 hour will not do any help
ReplyDeleteKnowing the importance of global wrming is important and the government has been emphasing it on singaporeans.
I do not think that it will have any impact on government policies. Perhaps more people will take notice of it but not all of them will want to change their lifestyle to save the Earth.
I am sure i will be paticiating as it will help the Earth, for at least one hour. I think the public should be reminded of this programme as many people ae busy and ty may forget.
Khoo Wan Xin 309
i think that this 'switching off your lights' thing is a very cool idea because this will instill a sense of responsibilty in people to help save electricity and make it a good habit!
ReplyDeletealthough it wouldn't be able to change people's mindsets that easily, at least people realise that saving electricity and saving the earth is a global effort and everyone
must play a part. as long as there is some effort put in saving electrity, there will be a significant difference. With this Earth Hour thing, it also encourages more people
to take the initiative to help save resources. In order to make Earth Day successful, i think that there should be more exposure on this event so that more people would participate.
Besides, almost everybody would be able to take part in such an event! except those living in the slums blahblah but this is truly a big step forward in reducing global warming!
Er, i should be able to switch off my lights next saturday, but can i still watch tv??? haha
Regarding to this entry about the actions which the Sydney government had carried out to let their people show their support against global warming, I do not think this initiative is feasible. By switching off their lights for one hour, it may not really encourage people to show their support against global warming and neither would it reduce the rate of global warming. Residents living there may not really adhere to the initiative. They may just continue to carry on with their work. As such, I think that if the Sydney government really want to let more of their people show their support against global warming, they should try another alternative ways like organising some events regarding to global warming, educating the people on the harmful effects of global warming and at the same time, it could also let the people realised that it was actually their actions which lead to global warming. This would increase the people' awareness towards global warming and they would then try to reduce the rate of global warming through little actions in their daily life. Although this initiative is not really feasible, however I believe this initiative would be able to carry the message of "Save the Earth from global warming by starting with saving electricity" to the people. This initiative also shows that the government do care about the people' well being rather than just focusing on political affairs.
ReplyDelete309 (7)
I believe that this initiative would not change Singaporeans’ mindsets about action against Global warming. Compared to the policies and programmes initiated by our government for the past few years, this event seems insignificant. I am positive that change does not come in a day, and obviously not an hour. If efforts made by organizations to encourage Singaporeans to take action against global warming over the past 3yrs has not amount to large successes, what big difference will this 1 hr make?
ReplyDeleteFurthermore, from daily observations, I realise that the general public does not look after the environment. For instance, when travelling about Singapore, it would be a common sight to see litter lying about. During the mass CIP programme held by our school, more than 40 cigarette butts and sweet wrappers were found in a small grass patch of 3m x 3m by the HDB blocks. I see it impossible that Singaporeans would concern themselves about global environmental problems when we do not even bother with the environmental state of our home country.
In addition, I state my opinion that Singaporeans are very materialistic. There exists a trend for us to do what most benefits us rather than what is best. Take for example, the means of advertisement to HDB residents. Everyday, upon opening their letterboxes, residents would find themselves flooded with flyers. Although many companies are encouraged to lessen such ways of advertising as it is of a huge waste of paper, only a small number of them do. After all, profits are always the largest factor to be considered and ‘going green’ would most of the time slash profits.
It is often said that time is money. Bearing in mind the largest factor taken into account when companies make decisions, what opportunity costs would they incur by taking part in this event?
Moving on to my next topic, I would think that this initiative will not affect government policies. This is due to the fact that our government priorities improving the economic situation over combating global warming. I’m not just referring to the current times. Singapore is a small country without natural resources; therefore I believe that it is essential for us to have economic activities a cut above the other countries in South East Asia at all times to ensure survival. In fact, most other countries also place economic status as a first on their agenda. Combating against Global warming comes as a means to increase reputation.
I honestly state that this initiative does not appeal to me, and I am positive that it does not appeal to the rest of my family either. Frankly speaking, we are aware but not overly concerned about the Global warming crisis. However, we still do our part to save electricity just so to keep the electricity bills low. Needless to say, we would not be taking part in the event.
On a side note, I’m positive that educating Singaporeans to conserve electricity as a part of their lives would be a more effective initiative taken rather than this event. Schools should look beyond ‘results’ and start emphasizing on the education of morals such as what we can do to repay the society or save the earth. If you would know, brainwashing takes a decade and not a mere 1hr. Thus I suggest that the government start working on pre-school children so that they would cultivate these ‘save the world’ actions into habits that they will perform unconsciously when they grow up.
Joanna See (17) 309
This initiative is definitely needed. It serves as a wake-up call to all people who use electricity as if it is air, when as a matter of fact, its dieing out. It further more increase the seriousness of the impact of global warming by doing this movement.
ReplyDeleteAs it is but an initiative, it will fare as a first step, but it would most definitely not affect the mindset of people much. They would realize that there is such global warming, but will not take absolute actions.
Government policies would be affected, and I personally feel that the electrical charges should be changed, instead of a steady price; they should set it in an increasing rate. If they find a average price of electricity of a 4-room flat for example, they would make the price increase steadily such that those who use the average amount would not have to pay more. But those who splurge their electricity would have to pay a higher cost per unit so that they would feel the pain of the lack of electricity in monetary terms.
I would be participating in earth hour if I can as I believe a small part in the world still serves a part.
-Junzhe (19) 310
Min jin 310
ReplyDeleteEarth day Earth hour? Take action against global warming during this "occasion"? Seriously i think this is total crap. Why only do this during the special "Earth day" "Earth hour" that is like going to happen once a year? This is NOT going to change the world's mindset against global warming. Out of the "1 billion" people that participated in this moment, i dare say less than 10% of the people ACTUALLY changed their mindset.
Once this "event" is over, they probably go back to their usual lifestyle ignoring this whole save gaia campaign. Why have this Earth day and hour when WE can educate the people around us simply by spreading the word? This whole "initiative" would not pay off.
Even if the government steps in, this campaign would not be a priority. Probably some " Do this. Never do? Nevermind" scheme. Totally ignored by the people.
Mindset of people would be " Since the earth is dying, just let it die", " the earth probably dies a thousand years later, by then im already dead so why bother" or " Other people will do it". We can actually change the mindset of people. Not by some useless and uneffective earth day programme. This programme is seriously overrated.
Most people would probably play possum rather than waste their time on this. Why bother when my life is so "wonderful" "fruitful" now?
Me participating earth hour? No way. Waste my 1 hour without lights? No way. This isn't going to help earth anyway. I would love to take part in saving the earth, but not this crap programme that serves no purpose.
Nah, the government probably doesn't care about such insignificant stuff, they probably cared more for the economy...
Aww man, i still haven't done any homework. D:
I think that this is commendable as it will allow people to reduce global warming together just by doing a simple step- switching off the lights for an hour. Moreover, this will create a sense of belonging as they will know that each and every one of them is important in playing a part in reducing global warming.
ReplyDeleteHowever, in my opinion, it will only change a handful of people’s mindsets. Most of the people will continue to contribute to global warming in one way or another e.g. installation of air-conditioners in our school while some still are trying very hard to reduce global warming e.g. people participating in the earth hour and this will defeat the purpose of this initiation.
Also, I do not think that it will make much impact on government policies since it is not a large scale event yet which can influence almost every single person on earth and thus, having a need to amend or create government policies to reduce global warming. Moreover, for example, if the government were to ban logging of trees completely, illegal logging will still occur and logging of trees will also continue in other countries. This will cause a loss of revenue to that country and global warming will still not be able to be reduced.
I will try to participate in Earth Hour 2009. However, it should be advertised [in an eco- friendly way of course e.g. using recycled papers for posters and emails] around the world so that it will be widespread and more people will participate in this initiation. Furthermore, more eco- friendly events can be planned so that people will really understand the importance of reducing global warming. If everyone does his or her part in using less of CFC products, paper, air-conditioners, etc, even if it involves the retraction of technology, the world can still be saved from global warming.
In my opinion, this event will not help in fighting against global warming.
ReplyDeleteThe Earth is already badly affected by the development of mankind as technology advances forward. The world now is already terribly destroyed, switching off lights for an hour isn't really going to change the world in any way. Even the people who participate in such an initiative would just return to their energy-wasting selves after this one hour.
I think it will change the mindsets of only some people. For those who feel that they should really do their part in preventing further damage of the Earth. However, personally i feel that this is just a waste of effort. Truthfully, no one really cares about the Earth. They would do whatever they want so long as they benefit.
This event will surely not change any of the government policies as not everyone is convinced that such an initiative will be able to change the world back to what it used to be. Eg when the ozone layer was still unscathed.
Earth Hour 2009 is a totally meaningless event as it does not truly help in the fight against global warming. How much can the Earth recover in that one hour? Its not going to help. Thus i would not participate in this initiative.
-Sim Wei Yang(33) Class 310
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteI feel that this can achieve many purposes such as educating the public on the impacts and causes of global warming and what we can do to prevent it from happening in the future. Not only that, if everyone across the globe successfully saves electricity this way, global warming can be curbed to a certain extent.
ReplyDeleteHowever, this is not enough if we are to prevent global warming from happening at all. I believe that the future lies in green energy and energy saving technology. With this technology, we are would be able to reduce our carbon footprint on our planet and thus lowering our global temperature and ensuring the survival for all of earth's inhabitants.
Furthermore, if people are educated in energy saving and cost cutting measures, they would also help in our cause against global warming. Simple practices such as bringing your own bag for shopping and turining off the lights when leaving a room can help. Using less plastic bags means that less waste would be produced which would lead to a decrease in greenhouse gases produced when waste products are burnt to reduce them in size. Energy saving would mean that less energy is needed and hence less fuels are burnt for this energy and the gases produced would also decrease significantly.
Earth Hour 2009 is a relatively successful event if the members of public learn and practice ways to combat the problem of global warming. Thus I would be participating in this programme so that I can learn more about Global Warming and how to prevent it.
-Billy Chia (17) Class 310
I personally feel that this programme/event would not help much in fighting against global warming. Through this event, people across the world would switch off their lights and electrical appliances for one hour. However, after that one hour what actually happens? People resume their huge consumption of electricity at homes and offices.
ReplyDeleteHowever, this would create some public awareness about the issue of global warming that has been grappling us for the past few decades. In that one hour, some of the people's mindsets about global warming might be changed.
In conclusion, this event is not entirely useless. I would be taking part in it as a show of support for the efforts of the organisers in a bid to fight against global warming.
which reminds me.... I should be switching off the computer right now.
I personally feel that this would not really change the mindset of people. People would just think that this is a 1 time thing and would not continue for the rest of their lives. Global Warming would not stop with just this little participation. They need something big, something that would inflict enough impact to let people realise how devastating this situation is.
ReplyDelete-Low Jian Sheng , 310
In my opinion, though persuading at least 1 billion of the world's population to convent oneself into stopping his urge to light up his house for 1 hour seems a small scale project, but it is the message that will be sent across the world of global warming caused by electricity that could really stung the hearts of human beings.Furthermore, it could be said that 1 hour of electricity stoppage may be tiny compared to a whole life time's, but 1 billion houses in 1 hour can actually save quite a huge amount of electricity large enough to generate a turbine for a few days.
ReplyDeleteOn the other hand,I personally felt that a larger scale of initiatives could be innovated in order to convey a larger message of importance to lesser educated countries. The 1 hour of electricity stoppage could be prolonged to maybe 10 hours a month or so in each household. These policy could be initiated to help the emission of ozone gases into the atmosphere decrease drastically.
Initiatives like Earth Hour 2009 will probably not cause much change in mindsets of the governments. But I can assure that some governments in first-world countries will start implementing laws on ozone layer- friendly methods in keeping the air fresher and cleaner. One of the policy suggested is to keep a day aside for the planting of at least 10 trees around each small towns across the country in order for replenishing of oxygen to be carried out more efficiently.
Will I participate in Earth Hour 2009? Well, why not? Being a part of the 1 billion people seems to be a huge honor to me and it definitely does not hurt to help the Earth especially when it will be held right on my brithday(28 March). This will definitely allow me something to remember for the rest of my life.
- Kang Jie (37) 310.
i feel that Earth Hour is an interesting idea and not too bad either. Earth hour could convey and spread the message of saving the earth to more people. it could also provide an easy way for people to save electricity. i'm sure most people can spare an hour of their time without their lights on. however, perhaps there should be more details on this activity...for example: is watching TV counted? haha.
ReplyDeletewill this change mindsets? well, at the moment, Earth Hour doesn't seem like a big deal. i don't see many advertising done to promote this activity. if more people were to know of this activity, and i don't mean hearing it on the radio the day before 28th March 2009 and forgetting it the next morning, perhaps mindsets could be changed. perhaps. singaporeans have busy lifestyles,filled with homework, work, or gaming etcetera. we will not be inclined to remember it. it wouldn't seem like a big deal to most of the people. if more consistant advertising were done (or something like that) i think that it will impact the people more.
i think that if this event were to be successful, it will have an impact on government policies. but it will be a small impact. changing lifestyles to prevent Global Warming (or something big like this, a major cause like this) will require a sense of responsibility towards the earth which mojority of the people do not have. they take the earth they are living on for granted. therefore, government policies will only receive small-scale impacts.
will i participate in this?? well, i'm interested. but it depends on whether i remember it or not. i'll try to remember it and so...yes. i'll participate in this. :D
sec 309 (11)
Absolutely, I will participate in Earth Hour.
ReplyDeleteAs we speak, heat waves are terrorizing countries, droughts and famines are plaguing villages and water levels are rising at an alarming rate. Due to the rising water levels, Singapore may follow the footsteps of mythological Greek island Atlantis and sink into the abyss. Global warming is real.
Earth Hour is all environmental activists' dream come true. For many years, awareness on global warming and climate change have increased. Many now know of the dire consequences of abusing our planet. There is a shift from merely being aware to active participation. With Earth Hour [one of the many activities lined up], yet another action has taken place.
True, the Earth Hour is a one off event that may not be effective in the long run when the novelty has worn off. However, I feel it is a GIGANTIC tiny step towards rescuing our planet. For most of the comments, many have agreed to participate in this event. This shows that if someone takes action, others will follow. From chic cloth bags and ecofriendly designer labels to hybrid cars, people from all over the world are striving to protect this planet we call our home.
Closer to home, our Government is doing its part. For one, the new buses that are being rolled out are ecofriendly as they do not emit harmful gases. Our roads are also made with biodegradable substances. As Singapore strives to be in the forefront of the global market, the likelihood of the government coming up with policies to go green is high.
For the sake of our planet [and for our many future generations of children], I am sure that everyone will do their part. Earth Hour will be marked as a small but significant historical event in the history of Earth saving. (:
I think that this event is a good way of getting people to be more aware of global warming and getting them to show their support for it. Also, encouraging Singaporeans to embrace this world wide initiative allows Singaporeans to get more bonded for they are working together to face this problem. However, I do not think that a lot of people know about this project and some might feel that switching off the lights for 1 hour would interrupt their work or get in their way.
ReplyDeleteThis might change the mindsets of some people but not everybody. Especially with the peoples’ current lifestyle, it would be difficult to change their way of living, just for global warming.
It might also positive impact on government policies, for this event might cause the government to have more policies to raise the awareness of global warming to more people.
Lastly, I would definitely participate in Earth Hour 2009!
Rachel [04]
S310
Locally, Earth Hour has not been well publicized by the Singapore government as well as the National Environment Agency. I have not researched deeply as to why promotion has not been initiated by them but personally I feel that this projects a negative image of them.
ReplyDeleteAlso, the purpose of Earth Hour is nothing but simply to raise awareness.
Switching off the lights for one hour does not save that much electricity as the stress one puts on the circuits by suddenly turning off all of the lights for an hour and then switching it on again wastes about as much power as leaving them on.
Such an event would, in the long run, be recognized for its efforts but I believe it will not result in any major collaborations ie Live Earth.
Despite the little benefits Earth Hour could possibly provide, I will definitely be taking part in it, as would my entire family.
i think this initiative should be commended and people should be encouraged to do so.switching off the lights for one hour actually doesn't make any difference to me, but it actually reduces the rate of global warming!
ReplyDeleteby carrying out this earth hour programme and promoting it spreads this message to people that actually we can reduce the rate of global warming by our own daily habits.for example switching off the lights when we are not using.
this definitely would not cause any impact on government policies.
i will definitely take part in this year's earth hour!!! sounds fun!!! light candles when there is no light!! can create ghost figurings!!! have fun and at the same time save the earth:D
-nichol[09]309
Thats bad. Unrealistic. Bad. Should come up with other, better plans
ReplyDeletePersonally, I don't think this initiative is going to make much of a difference against global warming. I’m not trying to be negative, but I mean, so much have been tried and done against global warming, even so many posters, advertisements and commercials showing humans “planning their own murder” have been shown, but instead of improving conditions, disheartening situations on global warming are on the rise. People who have cared have cared, and people who have not would not suddenly realise and change their mindset unless they start thinking about what these initiatives are about, and what they aim to achieve. The people may be told to turn off their lights between these times, but have they understood the reason behind it? Moreover, if ms rani had not posted on this Earth Hour initiative, I would not know that there is such an event. Furthermore, I have yet to spot any of the programmes organised by Singapore on Earth Hour. Unless this initiative brings about strikes against governments’ actions enhancing global warming, little to none changes would be done to the policies, as I believe the government had done the best they could in leading the nation against global warming. However, there is no guarantee that government will not make further changes.
ReplyDeleteNonetheless, it is a commendable effort against global warming. By turning off the lights that period of time, people may reflect on what this initiative signifies and awareness could be raised against actions enhancing global warming. Perhaps it would be a better approach if the initiative was held in the afternoon as it would further suggest the importance of turning off their lights whenever they can help it, when it is unnecessary or when they can turn to the natural source of light, sunlight. Of course I’ll take part in this initiative and contribute to the one in the one billion people!
I think that this programme is definitely beneficial and educational. This programme will definitely help children and also put an idea of conserving electricity and the environment into their minds.
ReplyDeleteI do not know it is going to change mindsets of people as it might just make people think that conserving electricity is another troublesome activity and will obstruct lots of daily activities. Therefore, more talks and brochures should be carried out in the schools and neighborhoods to tell people the different and much easier ways to reach the aim of conserving energy.
Actually, this initiative will not affect much of the government policies except obstruct some activities or office work at that period of time as Singaporeans still rely much on the lights to carry out work.
I would definitely be participating in the Earth Hour as I would love to be a part for contributing to the environment. The Earth needs our help and we should be there to lend a hand to Mother Earth.
I don't think this approach would make an impact on the world. Yes it would raise awareness because of how 'big' it is, but one hour isn't going to make much of a difference. I think that the world is in a very desperate situation. Global warming is getting worse every moment. A law should be implemented, a family should not exceed an amount of usage of electricity depending on the number of people living in that house. I think it makes much more sense this way.
ReplyDeleteWell that's my suggestion. On the bright side, i can already see that this campaign is becoming a 'hot topic' nationwide, and many people are agreeing to participate in this big event. Maybe, just maybe, people around the world would still bear in mind to save electricity after this whole event (which i doubt would happen). nevertheless, i'm sure this event will definitely make an impact, no matter how big, on the world. In the end, i'm sure everyone would be very proud of themselves.
Nicholas Goh 309
Although this may be a good way to conserve energy and support the action against electricity. However, it may not be working as the this will obstruct a lot of daily activities esp, during the 8.30pm to 9.30pm as people are just back from work and all sorts.
ReplyDeleteHowever i think that over a period of time, this may change the mindsets of the people if they are willing to sacrifice some time to conserve the energy and enforce this idea of coserving energy is a everybody part to play. this is going to be beneificial and will also educate the young and adult on how important conserving the energy is.
i feel that i will definitely participate this programme as everyone has a part to play be it if its going to obstruct my daily activities.
actually, this is the first time i heard about EARTH HOUR. when i first saw this on the news, i was attracted to its aim for large involvement in action against global warming. it is true that global warming has worsen and in the long run, it is going to affect the enviroment that we are living in. therefore, i think that EARTH HOUR is an interesting idea to raise awareness of global warming. EARTH HOUR is a good start in action against global warming. just by a mere action of switching off the lights, we could help against global warming. however, i think just by organising EARTH HOUR is not enough to change mindsets as this activity is highly publicized in our country. i think that a policy should be implemented to aid the action against global warming. nonetheless,i strongly feel that EARTH HOUR would make and impact on the nation and the government and serve as a platform for the government to take action against global warming. lastly, i will definitely participate in EARTH HOUR as this is a rare chance for me to switch off my lights and not do anything. of course, it can also be an excuse for me not to do my homework! HAHAHAHAHAHAH!
ReplyDeleteI feel that this initiative is good as it encourages people to use less electricity and it gives the awareness of global warming. Global warming is becoming a increasing serious problem and one that threatens the survival of mankind and the future of our earth. Global warming depletes the ozone layer and it causes a few other problems such as increased sea levels and many others. I think that earth hour is a important first step to encourage people to take action against global warming. I think it would change people's mindset as people would be encouraged to play a part in this event and even though one hour is a short duration of time, if we consider the number of people taking part, we would save a lot of electricity. I would take part in Earth hour if I am able to.
ReplyDeleteIn my opinion, this effort to promote awareness among Singaporeans of global climate change would not succeed to a large extent. Evidence to support my view are that most Singaporeans do not even have the slightest inkling that Earth Day even exists and they might thus not participate in the 1-hour blackout on 28 March. Besides, many residents have environmental conservation at the very back of their minds, with the current economic downturn and these people might be reluctant to deliberately alter their busy schedules and be willing to go to the inconvenience to accommodate this initiative. Thirdly, most Singaporeans see the usage of electricity as their right (as they pay electrical bills), possibly resulting in them blatantly refusing to take part in this effort.
ReplyDeleteHowever, news spreads fast, and if news of this upcoming initiative gets to a significant number of Singaporeans who would be willing to take part, I feel that all Singaporeans would possess more environmental awareness after 28 March. I would definitely turn off all lights at home to fully support this Earth Day initiative.
Zan Ji (36) 309
i feel that policy is good as it convey a message to the people telling them that we can also do our part in saving mother earth. this policy also let us better know that the opponent we are facing is none other than global warming.
ReplyDeleteas we all know, global warming is the rise in the global temperature, causing the icebergs in the northpole to melt and thus increasing the water level. we may think that increase in water level, is a good thing as we got more water resources now. however do u know that singapore is a low lying island, any increase in water level might cause the island to sink into deep deep ocean. furthermore,what are we able to do in one hour? play computer game, watch television. why not do something more significant, by swiching off all the lights to save mother earth.
while we are saving resources here, on the other hand, some people are wasting their resources by building air con in the entire school compund. i feel that the government should be justice by coming up with a policy that maximum 3 to 4 for a residential area and 30 to 40 for a school.
i will definitly take part in it
lim zheng de