Today we will have to be very attentive to the clock, to the two hours of the year that are most important for energy saving. People in Lanzarote should be aware of the ecological value of these actions. Being a "Biosphere Reserve" is not just a title as many people think, it implies much more.
We are a Biosphere Reserve because our territory has a unique ecological value, but it is not the only characteristic that differentiates us from other places, our population is integrated into nature and the activities we carry out should not interfere with its conservation.
Reserves are places of experimentation and study, places of learning where managers, scientists and the population come together to achieve local practices appropriate to sustainable development. Earth Hour Earth Hour emerged 11 years ago as a symbolic gesture to draw attention to the problem of climate change. Turning off the lights of homes, buildings and emblematic monuments for an hour is a simple action that not only allows us to save polluting electrical energy, but also allows us to become aware of the problem.
Last year in Lanzarote this symbolic gesture of citizens, entities and town councils was greater than in previous years, but this year it has not been sufficiently reported. Mobilization and awareness are necessary if we want to continue holding this title. I would like to see only some streetlights on for an hour, I would like all public buildings to turn off their lights. Will this be the year chosen?
As a Biosphere Reserve, we must clearly reflect our position in favor of the climate and biodiversity, and it is a task for all people. Under the slogan "Turn off the light and connect to the Planet", this year it will take place on Saturday, March 24, from 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., when the lights around the world will be turned off for an hour and millions of people will connect in a common cause: to defend our home and the diversity of life it harbors.
Time change
On the other hand, on the night of this Saturday to Sunday, March 25, the first time change of 2018 will take place and the clocks will be advanced by one hour. This modification is part of a European Community directive that affects all countries of the Union, and aims to make better use of daylight hours and consume less electricity.
The time change also has positive impacts on sectors such as transport, tourism and leisure, according to a study carried out by the European Commission. However, this regulation is currently in question since certain investigations point to the negative consequences on people's biorhythm, especially the elderly and children.
There is debate as to whether it would not be better for the entire Union to adopt Canary time, our famous one hour less! But while they reach a consensus, tonight we will sleep one hour less, which we will compensate for by enjoying those endless summer afternoons that find us so comfortable on the beach or on a terrace with friends. So this spring started strong: "Earth Hour" to learn, "Holy Week" to rest and "Time Change" to enjoy.
