As the United States, Canada, and Cuba gear up to set their clocks forward by an hour on March 10, signaling the onset of daylight saving time, the perennial debate over the necessity and consequences of this practice reignites. Here’s a comprehensive overview of daylight saving time and the arguments surrounding its continuation.
What is daylight saving time?
Daylight saving time involves advancing clocks by one hour during summer months to extend daylight into the evening. While widely adopted in North America and Europe, many equatorial countries and others have abstained from this practice. The debate over its merits and drawbacks persists, with countries, including Egypt, reconsidering its adoption based on energy conservation needs.
When does daylight saving time end in 2024?
In the US and neighboring countries, daylight saving time will commence on March 10 at 2 a.m. local time, resulting in the loss of one hour. Conversely, in the UK and European countries, daylight saving time, also known as summer time, will commence on March 31. The US follows a schedule, starting on the second Sunday in March and concluding on the first Sunday in November.
Why was daylight saving created in the US and how did it start?
The concept of altering clocks with the seasons dates back to the late 19th century, with New Zealand entomologist George Hudson proposing it to conserve energy and lengthen summer daylight hours. However, it gained traction during World War One when European states sought fuel-saving strategies. Germany adopted it in 1916, and the US followed suit in 1918. The Uniform Time Act standardized the practice in the US in 1966. Contrary to popular belief, the original motivation was not to benefit farmers, and studies question the energy-saving aspect.
Do all US states observe daylight saving time?
Hawaii and Arizona (except Navajo Nation) do not observe daylight saving time. Additionally, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands adhere to permanent standard time. Despite its prevalence, 19 states have passed legislation to adopt permanent daylight saving time if permitted by Congress.
Is the US ending daylight saving time?
While there’s ongoing discussion, the US is not immediately ending daylight saving time. The bipartisan Sunshine Protection Act, introduced in 2022, seeks to make daylight saving time permanent. Despite unanimous Senate approval, the bill awaits further action in the House of Representatives. The outcome hinges on whether lawmakers opt for standard time or permanent daylight saving time.
