When does the time change, and why?

Daylight Saving Time (DST) is the practice of moving clocks forward one hour during the warmer months to extend evening daylight. This adjustment typically takes place in spring, with clocks reverting to standard time in autumn. The primary aim of DST is to make better use of natural daylight and conserve energy.Daylight Saving Time (DST) is the practice of moving clocks forward one hour during the warmer months to extend daylight in the evenings. The adjustment is made in spring, and clocks return to standard time in autumn. DST is intended to make better use of natural daylight and reduce energy consumption.
When does Daylight Saving Time begin in 2025?
In North America, DST will commence on Sunday, 9 March 2025. At 2:00 AM local standard time, clocks will advance one hour to 3:00 AM local daylight time. This change will affect most parts of the United States and Canada.
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Meanwhile, in Europe, DST will take effect on Sunday, 30 March 2025, when clocks will be moved forward one hour at 1:00 AM local time. The practice will continue until the autumn, when clocks will be set back again.
How did Daylight Saving Time start?
The idea of DST dates back over two centuries, first suggested Benjamin Franklin in the 18th century as a way to conserve energy waking up earlier. However, it wasn’t officially implemented until World War I, when Germany adopted DST in 1916 to save fuel.
Other European countries followed, and the United States introduced DST in 1918. Though initially unpopular, it was reinstated during World War II and later standardised with the Uniform Time Act of 1966, which allowed states to opt out.
Who observes Daylight Saving Time?
DST is observed in many countries across North America, Europe, and parts of Asia and Australia. However, some regions do not participate in the time change. In the United States, Hawaii, most of Arizona, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands do not observe DST.Story continues below this ad
Regions that do not observe DST
While most of the United States adheres to DST, certain regions do not participate. These include Hawaii, most of Arizona (excluding the Navajo Nation), American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands.
How is Daylight Saving Time viewed today?
DST has long been a subject of debate. While it was originally introduced to save energy, critics argue that the time change leads to increased energy consumption due to higher cooling costs in some regions. Additionally, DST can disrupt sleep patterns, affecting health and productivity.
In recent years, discussions about abolishing DST have gained traction. US President Donald Trump suggested eliminating the practice, citing its inconvenience and economic impact.
Daylight Saving Time continues to be a debated topic, with proponents advocating its benefits for extended daylight hours and opponents criticising its impact on health and productivity. As 2025 approaches, millions will once again adjust their clocks, signalling the arrival of longer, brighter evenings.