Daylight saving time (DST) remains a topic of debate as its implementation continues to affect millions globally. Originally proposed by Benjamin Franklin in 1784, DST aimed at making better use of daylight during longer days. In modern times, most European countries observe DST, excluding Russia, Iceland, and Belarus. In the United States, DST was standardized by the Uniform Time Act of 1966, with clocks moving forward on the second Sunday in March and reverting on the first Sunday in November. Notably, Hawaii and Arizona do not observe DST, although the Navajo Nation in northeastern Arizona follows it.
DST's inception was rooted in energy conservation efforts during World War I. This principle was further tested during the Arab oil embargo, which prompted a trial period of year-round DST in the United States. While studies indicate that DST contributes to some energy savings, the effect is minimal, accounting for about half of a percent of what would otherwise be used. As Earth transitions from winter to spring and summer, days lengthen, peaking with the summer solstice.
The European Union is contemplating abandoning clock changes altogether, with a significant 84% of respondents in a survey of 4.6 million people expressing their desire to discontinue DST. In Canada, certain regions like parts of British Columbia, Saskatchewan, northwest Ontario, and east Quebec remain on standard time throughout the year.
The next cycle of DST in North America will commence on Sunday, March 9, 2025, as clocks move forward by an hour. In contrast, DST will end on October 26, 2025, in the United States. The concept of DST continues to evolve as societies weigh its benefits against its inconveniences.
Benjamin Franklin first suggested the concept of daylight saving time in 1784 as a way to make better use of natural light and presumably conserve energy. Franklin's proposal was initially met with skepticism and humor rather than serious consideration. However, the idea gained traction over time and was eventually adopted by many nations worldwide.
In Europe, most countries align with DST regulations, adjusting their clocks forward and backward twice a year. This practice excludes Russia, Iceland, and Belarus. The United States adopted a standard approach to DST with the Uniform Time Act of 1966. This legislation set the pattern for DST to begin on the second Sunday in March and end on the first Sunday in November. However, Hawaii and Arizona chose not to participate in this time shift due to varying reasons including geographical location and resident preferences. Interestingly, the Navajo Nation in northeastern Arizona adheres to DST despite its surrounding state's exemption.
The origins of DST are closely tied to energy conservation efforts during World War I when governments sought innovative ways to reduce coal consumption. The practice resurfaced during the Arab oil embargo when the United States experienced a trial period of year-round DST under President Richard Nixon's administration. Although studies have demonstrated that DST reduces energy usage slightly—by about half of a percent—the savings are modest compared to initial expectations.
As Earth transitions from winter into spring and summer, days become noticeably longer leading up to the summer solstice—the longest day of the year. This natural phenomenon is one reason why DST proponents argue for its continued use; however, it also forms part of the argument against it—natural daylight increases regardless of human intervention.
In recent years, discussions regarding the viability and necessity of clock changes have intensified within the European Union. A survey carried out among 4.6 million people revealed that an overwhelming majority—84%—favored abolishing seasonal clock adjustments altogether. This sentiment reflects growing concerns about the disruption caused by biannual time changes.
Meanwhile, in Canada, diverse regions such as certain areas within British Columbia and parts of Saskatchewan opt to remain on standard time throughout the year rather than observe DST like much of the country does.
Daylight saving time will officially commence again across North America on Sunday, March 9th, 2025 when clocks will advance by one hour marking another cycle through this longstanding tradition.
