Sea levels are on the rise, glaciers are melting, and precipitation patterns are changing. These environmental changes are primarily driven by burning fossil fuels according to scientific, environmental research. Over the last decade, climate change has become more pronounced, and natural disasters are occurring at rates faster than modern society has ever seen before. According to the World Health Organization, “Climate change affects the social and environmental determinants of health – clean air, safe drinking water, sufficient food and secure shelter.”
To show support for protecting our planet, major BAPS Mandirs across North America turned off lights in honor of Earth Hour on Saturday, March 24, 2018, between 8:30-9:30 pm local time. Every year, the World Wide Fund for Nature organizes Earth Hour. Participation in this act of solidarity aims to increase commitment to protecting our planet for future generations. The event is one of many sustainability initiatives BAPS is involved in as part of a broader commitment to support safe environmental practices.
BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha is proud to join the ranks of global landmarks, including the Empire State Building, the Golden Gate Bridge, the great Colosseum in Rome, the Pyramids of Egypt, and the Eiffel Tower, that participate in the annual Earth Hour event.