Earth Hour

The Earth Hour event was originated by WWF and Leo Burnett, first taking place in 2007 in Sydney.

Earth Hour is a global movement uniting people to protect the planet. Towards the end of March every year, communities from across the world celebrating a commitment to the planet by switching off lights for one designated hour.

Earth Hour 2013 took place in more than 7001 cities and towns in 153 countries and territories across all seven continents.

Earth Hour 2014 will be held on Saturday 29 March between 8.30PM and 9.30PM in your local time zone. 

For more information, please visit Earth Hour official website: http://www.earthhour.org/ 

Pollution

Air Pollution

The release of chemicals and particulates into the atmosphere. Common gaseous pollutants include carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and nitrogen oxides produced by industry and motor vehicles. Photochemical ozone and smog are created as nitrogen oxides and hydrocarbons react to sunlight. Particulate matter, or fine dust is characterized by their micrometre size PM₁₀ to PM2.5

Water Pollution

The discharge of waste water from commercial and industrial waste into surface waters; discharges of untreated domestic sewage, and chemical contaminants, such as chlorine, from treated sewage; release of waste and contaminants into surface run off flowing to surface waters ; waste disposal and leaching into groundwater; eutrophication and littering

Noise Pollution

The disturbing or excessive noise that may harm the activity or balance of human or animal life. The source of most outdoor noise worldwide is mainly caused by machines and transportation systems, motor vehicles, aircrafts, and trains. Poor urban planning may give rise to noise pollution. Indoor noise is caused by machines, building activities, music performances, and especially in some workplaces.

Climate Change

Over the past century, human activities have released large amounts of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. The majority of greenhouse gases come from burning fossil fuels to produce energy.

Greenhouse gases act like a blanket around Earth, trapping energy in the atmosphere and causing it to warm. This phenomenon is called the greenhouse effect and is natural and necessary to support life on Earth. However, the build up of greenhouse gases can change Earth's climate and result in dangerous effects to human health and welfare and to ecosystems.

The choices we make today will affect the amount of greenhouse gases we put in the atmosphere in the near future and for years to come.

For more information, refer to http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/basics/