It couldn't have been more clear as the world turned out in HUGE numbers to make a global statement about climate change and the need for immediate action.  The only question that remains is if the world's governments were listening and are ready to act.  By all accounts, Earth Hour 2009 was a smashing success.  In only its third year, this event is truly a global phenomenon - but the true success can only be determined by how few of these we actually have.

The question was asked to DTE yesterday what the point of Earth Hour is, and if it's true that it's more vanity than anything.  Of course it is, going dark for an hour has little measurable effect but it's an enormous boost to the visibility of how serious the global community takes the issue of climate change.  The point is to be heard and to show how many people are willing to take up this cause.  And more than anything, we think it shines light (no pun intended on any of these light references) on those who aren't willing carrying the flag.  Sure there were 4,000 cities that participated this year, but what about the thousands that didn't.  What about Spokane?

Enjoy the below slideshow of the before and after shots of many of the world's most famous cityscapes, buildings, and structures.  From the Great Pyramids to the Empire State Building to the weird-looking Olympic buildings in Beijing.

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