the big switch-off

[mr_j]

got this from my friend JM:

1st of February 2007:
Participate in the biggest mobilization of Citizens Against Global Warming!
The Alliance for the Planet [a group of environmental associations] is
calling on all citizens to create 5 minutes of electrical rest for the
planet.

http://www.lalliance.fr

People all over the world should turn off their lights and electrical
appliances on the first of February 2007, between 1.55 pm and 2.00 pm in New
York , 18.55 for London , and 19.55 for Paris , Bruxelles, and Italy . 1.55pm in
Ottawa , 10.55am on the Pacific Coast of North America .
This is not just about saving 5 minutes worth of electricity; this is about
getting the attention of the media, politicians, and ourselves.

Five minutes of electrical down time for the planet: this does not take
long, and costs nothing, and will show all political leaders that global
warming is an issue that needs to come first and foremost in political
debate.

Why February 1? This is the day when the new UN report on global climate
change will come out in Paris .

This event affects us all, involves us all, and provides an occasion to show
how important an issue global warming is to us. If we all participate, this
action can have real media and political weight.
Please circulate this call to your utmost ability to your network.

[Irock]

Sounds well-intentioned, but wouldn't this have been more effective if they'd picked a weekend? There is no way I can shut off my computer, not be on a phone call, and turn off everyone's lights...

[monet2u]

kind of tough when at work...I'm in a HUGE bulding where I don't control any of the lights etc.