August is winding down, and summer is fading away. As temperatures dip below 90 degrees, it’s time to start thinking about the end of daylight saving time.
This year, as usual, the clocks will fall back on Sunday, November 3, signaling shorter days ahead. While opinions on the practice vary, the upside is that we all gain an extra hour of sleep.
How does daylight saving time impact energy consumption?
The original intent of DST was to save energy, especially on lighting, by shifting more daylight hours to when people are awake. However, studies on the actual energy effects of DST have had conflicting results.
Some studies have found small decreases in energy consumption during DST:
- A 2008 U.S. Department of Energy report concluded that the four-week DST extension in 2007 saved about 0.5% of the nation’s electricity per day.
- A 2018 meta-analysis of 44 studies found an average 0.34% decrease in energy consumption during DST.
- Studies in Ontario, Great Britain, the U.S., Chile and Slovakia found reductions in energy demand ranging from 0.3% to 1.5%.
Pennsylvania residents might soon be done with daylight saving time altogether
Back in April 2021, the state’s House of Representatives passed a bill in a close 103-98 vote, which could lead to a permanent daylight saving time, eliminating the twice-yearly clock changes.
There are several compelling reasons to consider making daylight saving time permanent:
- Energy Savings: Studies suggest that keeping daylight saving time year-round could conserve energy.
- Improved Sleep Patterns: Eliminating the need to adjust clocks twice a year could lead to better sleep and overall health.
- Consistency: A permanent daylight saving time would provide a more stable schedule for businesses and individuals alike.
As we approach the end of daylight saving time this year, it’s interesting to consider the potential changes on the horizon. Whether you love it or hate it, the idea of a permanent daylight saving time in Pennsylvania could set a precedent for other states to follow.
Imagine a world where we no longer have to change our clocks twice a year. This idea is gaining traction, and it’s not hard to see why. Here are some compelling reasons why a permanent time change could benefit everyone:
Fewer Traffic Accidents
One of the most significant disruptions caused by changing clocks is an increase in traffic accidents. Studies have shown that the shift in time can lead to more collisions on the roads. By maintaining a consistent time year-round, we could potentially see a decrease in these accidents, making our roads safer for everyone.
Reduced Crime Rates
Another advantage of more daylight in the evening is the potential reduction in crime. Criminal activities often increase under the cover of darkness. With extended daylight hours, there’s a possibility that crime rates could drop, creating safer communities.
Healthier Lifestyles
A permanent time change could also encourage healthier lifestyles. More daylight in the evenings provides additional opportunities for outdoor activities and exercise. This shift could lead to improved physical and mental health for many people.
Rep. Ryan Mackenzie, who has championed this bill, describes the biannual clock change as “inefficient and outdated.” He believes that there is growing support for a consistent time standard and is eager for Pennsylvania to lead the charge in this movement.
A Growing National Movement
Pennsylvania is not alone in this endeavor. The National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) has reported that over 650 bills and motions have been introduced across the United States, all aimed at making daylight saving time a year-round standard.
However, until new legislation is passed, daylight saving time is still set to end this year on Sunday, November 3. The question remains: will we soon see a permanent shift in time that could bring about these positive changes?
U.S. Territories That Do Not Change Their Clocks
- Puerto Rico: As a Caribbean territory, Puerto Rico is located at a latitude similar to Hawaii, where the variation in daylight duration is minimal throughout the year. Therefore, it does not follow daylight saving time.
- Guam: This U.S. territory in the Pacific also remains on standard time year-round. Like other island territories, the daylight hours do not vary enough to justify changing the clocks.
- American Samoa: Situated in the South Pacific, this U.S. territory follows a similar pattern to Guam and Puerto Rico, remaining on standard time without clock adjustments.
- U.S. Virgin Islands: Located in the Caribbean, these islands also avoid daylight saving time due to the minimal variation in daylight hours.
What is the rationale behind considering daylight saving time as ‘inefficient and outdated’?
Daylight saving time (DST) is disruptive to people’s circadian rhythms and sleep schedules. The one-hour time change in spring and fall disrupts our body’s rhythms. This misalignment leads to health issues, such as more heart attacks and car accidents, in the days after the switch.
- Studies over the past 25 years have shown the disruptive effects of the one-hour change on the body. It takes time for people to adjust.
DST drops productivity and is expensive for the economy. The Monday after the spring time change sees an increase in “cyberloafing” as tired employees waste time on the internet.
- Estimates show DST costs the U.S. economy over $400 million a year due to health issues, lost productivity, and workplace injuries.
- Changing the clocks costs the economy $1.7 billion in lost time. That time could be spent on more productive activities.
The reasons for Daylight Saving Time (DST), such as saving energy during wars, are outdated. Today, the energy savings from shifting the clock are minimal or non-existent.
- DST was first used in WWI and WWII to conserve fuel. These reasons are now outdated.
- DST was promoted as an energy saver. But, it doesn’t save much energy, if any. Increased air conditioning use offsets any savings.
