To: The Premier of British Columbia and the Minister of Health

​For years, British Columbia has discussed ending the archaic practice of "springing forward" and "falling back." However, the current plan to move to Permanent Daylight Saving Time (DST) ignores a critical body of scientific evidence.

​We, the undersigned, call on the Government of British Columbia to adopt Permanent Standard Time (UTC-8) as our year-round clock.

​Why Standard Time?
​While Permanent DST is often marketed for its "extra evening light," sleep scientists and chronobiologists warn that it creates a permanent mismatch between our social clocks and the sun.

​Circadian Alignment: Our internal biological clocks are set by morning sunlight. Standard Time aligns most closely with the natural solar cycle.
​The "Social Jetlag" Effect: Under Permanent DST, winter sunrises in parts of BC would not occur until nearly 9:00 AM. Forcing children and workers to start their day in pitch darkness leads to chronic sleep deprivation.
​Public Safety: Research shows that the misalignment caused by DST is linked to increased rates of heart attacks, strokes, and workplace injuries. Furthermore, dark mornings are statistically more dangerous for pedestrians and students commuting to school.
​Mental Health: Lack of morning light exposure is a primary trigger for Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and decreased cognitive performance.
​The Science is Clear
​The Canadian Society for Chronobiology and the Society for Research on Biological Rhythms have both issued formal positions stating that Standard Time is the only healthy choice for the human body. Moving to Permanent DST would be a "permanent state of jetlag" for British Columbians.

​We ask the BC Government to prioritize biology over commerce. Let’s lead the way in the Pacific Northwest by choosing the time zone that supports our health, our safety, and our sleep.