Earth Hour in Boston - 2009

Boston seems consumed by the NCAA basketball tournament. However, maybe you should give your poor adrenaline-flooded heart a rest this Saturday from 8:30 PM to 9:30 PM by turning off your TV, and all electricity. It's called Earth Hour, and it's a worldwide event where people turn it all off in recognition of [essentially] global warming and our impact as humans on the Earth.

Individuals can choose to participate simply by making the choice to turn it all off. You still can have fun without electricity - My cousins and I used to regularly play "hide and seek in the dark," which was oh so thrilling (and bruise-inducing - who put that stepstool there?). You could also pull out some cards, board games, or light a few candles and get cozy with a special friend. ;-)

Cities can also elect to participate. This year, Boston has signed up, joining the list of over 1,000 cities in 80 countries. Us New Englanders are officially part of this! The Hancock tower will be dimming its lights, as will the Zakem bridge, Prudential Center, and other local landmarks.

Some restaurants are also celebrating with beeswax candles setting the mood - The Achilles Project in the up and coming Fort Point district (aka the area between South Station and the Boston Convention Center) is leading the way with a special menu between 8:30 and 9:30 PM.

Last year Chicago turned it off, and prevented the same amount of CO2 from being created that 104 acres of trees would have consumed. One hour CAN make a big difference.

So. I'll see you in the dark!

Related Posts: Earth Hour in Boston 2008; What is preventing you from being green?; Shopping Thriftily (and greenly)
The photo is of me! I'm in front of my candle-heavy birthday cake.