Get ready for less sleep in Georgia. Here’s when and why.
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More sun and less sleep.
Be sure to get some extra rest this weekend because we will lose an hour soon.
That’s right, daylight saving time is back and it’s time to spring forward.
But who still observes the time change and why do we do it? Here’s what we know:
Who observes Daylight Saving Time (DST)?
All but two states (Arizona and Hawaii) in the U.S. observe daylight saving time and more than 40 countries observe the time change, including Canada, New Zealand and most of Europe.
However, most of Asia and Africa do not take part in the time change.
The Sunshine Protection Act of 2021 has actually made daylight saving time the permanent standard time and was made effective on Nov. 5, 2023 in the U.S. This means the time will no longer occur once the House passes the bill and mornings will be dark from November to March.
Why do we observe DST?
According to Farmers’ Almanac, we keep the clocks moving backward and forward to take advantage of “the sun’s natural electricity,” and thus, save energy.
However, others see the evening sunlight as an extra treat after work.
“People tend to go outside when it’s light after work — playing sports, going for walks, taking kids to the playground — rather than sitting on the couch. Many outdoor industries, including golf and barbecue, have even promoted daylight saving time, which they say boosts profits,” said Maya Wei-Haas at National Geographic. “The petroleum industry is also a fan, as people drive more if it is still light after work or school.”
When should we change our clocks?
Daylight saving time is this Sunday, March 12, at 2 a.m. Don’t forget to switch your clocks before heading to bed. Most cellphones reset automatically.
