On 30 March 2025 it will be that time again: during the night from Saturday to Sunday the clocks are moved forward from 02:00 to 03:00, and daylight saving time (summer time) begins. This semiannual adjustment of the clock affects our daily routine and raises questions. In this article you will find everything important about the time change – from its history and its benefits to its effects on our everyday life. We clarify whether it is still appropriate and how you can prepare for the change.
What is the time change?
The time change is the process by which the clock time in a particular country or region is altered at specific times of the year. In most European countries, including Germany, the clocks are changed twice a year – once in spring and once in autumn. In spring the clock is advanced by one hour (daylight saving time), in autumn it is set back by one hour (standard time).
The original purpose of the time change was to align daily schedules better with daylight and to save energy. In recent years, however, the time change has become increasingly controversial.
History
The idea of the time change was first introduced in Germany during the First World War. The government at the time wanted to save energy by switching to daylight saving time so that people could use more daylight hours for work. The measure was adopted by many other European countries as well.
After the war, daylight saving time was abolished, but it was reintroduced during the Second World War. Since the 1980s, the time change has been carried out regularly in many European countries. In 1996 the EU introduced a harmonized daylight saving time regulation that standardized the clock change across member states. In 2018 there were discussions about a possible abolition of the time change, but so far no decision has been implemented.
Why does the time change exist?
The original motivation for the time change was to save energy. By adjusting the clock, daily routines could be arranged so that more daylight hours were available for work and leisure. Especially in winter, when it gets dark early, the time change was intended to ensure that evenings remain lighter for longer.
Another argument for daylight saving time was an improvement in people’s quality of life. Longer days were meant to help people spend more time outdoors and be more active. The economy, particularly retail, was also expected to benefit from extended opening hours.
But today there are increasing voices questioning the effectiveness of the time change. Numerous studies show that the actual energy-saving effect is minimal. In many modern countries where artificial lighting is widespread, the time change has no significant impact on energy consumption.
The advantages
Despite the growing criticism, the time change has some advantages that should not be overlooked:
1. More daylight in the evening
For many people, the longer evening is one of the main advantages of daylight saving time. Especially during the dark winter months, many people lack daylight, which can negatively affect mood and well-being. In summer, daylight saving time gives people more time to be outdoors and active, which improves quality of life.
2. Encouraging outdoor activities
With longer daylight, people have more opportunities to engage in outdoor activities after work or school. Sports such as jogging, cycling or hiking thus become a more attractive option. This promotes physical activity and has positive effects on health.
3. Positive effects on the economy
Another advantage of daylight saving time is its positive impact on the economy. Retailers and hospitality businesses benefit from longer opening hours because people stay out longer and continue to shop or dine after work. Especially in tourist regions, extended daylight leads to increased tourism and, consequently, higher revenues.
The disadvantages
Despite these advantages, there are also a number of disadvantages and challenges associated with the time change. It is repeatedly pointed out that the negative impact on the body and society should not be underestimated.
1. Disruption of the circadian rhythm
The biggest disadvantage of the time change is the disruption of the natural circadian rhythm. The body needs some time to adapt to the changed light conditions and the new clock time. Especially in the first days after the switch, many people suffer from sleep disturbances, fatigue and concentration problems. Some studies also show that the switch to daylight saving time is associated with an increase in cardiovascular diseases and accidents.
2. Less sleep in spring
In spring, when the clocks are set forward by one hour, people lose an hour of sleep. This can lead to increased tiredness and health problems, especially for people who already get little sleep. Studies have shown that in the days after the time change there are more traffic accidents and decreased productivity.
3. Minimal energy savings
Although the time change was originally introduced to save energy, experience shows that the savings are minimal. Modern technology today, such as energy-efficient lighting and heating, has greatly reduced the effect of daylight saving time. In some countries it is now believed that the clock change costs more than it saves.
Abolishing the time change – Arguments in favor
More and more people and organizations are calling for an end to the time change. In 2018 the European Union surveyed its citizens and found that an overwhelming majority supported abolishing the clock change. Most people experience the switch as disruptive and detrimental to their health. Moreover, there is no clear evidence for the efficiency of daylight saving time with regard to energy savings.
Some countries, such as Russia and certain US states, have already abolished the time change or switched to permanent daylight saving time. There are also considerations within the EU to abolish the clock change entirely and to maintain a single time permanently.
Conclusion
The time change is a controversial topic. It certainly has its origins in practical considerations for energy savings and the optimization of daylight. But in the modern era, where we rely less on natural light sources, the question arises whether the clock change is still necessary. The health and social impacts, particularly the disruption of the circadian rhythm, should not be underestimated.
Whether the time change will remain part of our lives in the future or be abolished is still unclear. Nevertheless, it is important that each individual prepares for the change and is aware of how it can affect daily life.