
One of the main purposes of daylight saving time having been introduced, namely to save energy, is in fact not being achieved, writes Michael Downing of The Conversation. Many studies indicate that people use more electricity because of it. Another major function of daylight saving time, to allow people to move outside in the sun more, isn’t achieved as most Americans end up using their cars more. This factor eliminates any physical health gains and increases the use of gasoline. In 1974, the introduction of daylight saving time in Florida was blamed for eight children dying in traffic accidents because they went to school in the dark.
Keep on reading at The ConversationDaylight saving time may not be perfect, but its upsides absolutely outweigh the downsides, holds Angela Chen of The Verge. Evenings and afternoons are a key time for social gatherings of all kinds. With daylight saving time, the increased lasting of daytime allows more of these interactions to occur. People become more tired and less willing to go out when it’s dark. Crime also rises during these times. Additionally, it makes roads safer for joggers, cyclists and children. Light in the morning simply isn’t as important as in the evening as mornings don’t tend to be social hours. Daylight saving time increases people’s quality of life.
Keep on reading at The Verge