The seasonal time change, in force in many countries, raises questions about its health effects and its current usefulness, particularly in Brazil where it has been abandoned.Brazil, Breaking News, Society, time change, energy saving, Environment, europe, time zone, summer time, societal impacts, Health, sleep, AFE PACKAGE, newsThe seasonal time change, in force in many countries, raises questions about its health effects and its current usefulness, particularly in Brazil where it...
The switch to summer time, an annual practice in several regions of the world, gives rise to recurring debates on its advantages and disadvantages. This Sunday, March 29, 2026, many European countries, including Spain and Portugal, advance their clocks by one hour to 2 a.m., thus reducing the night to 11 p.m. This measure, initially designed to optimize the use of natural light, continues to divide experts and citizens.
In Brazil, daylight saving time was officially abandoned in 2019, marking a turning point in the country's energy policy. The authorities justified this decision with studies showing marginal energy savings, which did not compensate for the disruption caused. Unlike Europe, where the system continues, Brazil now maintains a uniform schedule all year round, avoiding biannual adjustments.
One of the main points of controversy is the health effects. The sudden loss of an hour of sleep can cause circadian rhythm disturbances, temporarily increasing the risk of fatigue, irritability and reduced concentration. Research indicates that this transition may worsen cardiovascular problems in some susceptible people, although the impacts vary between individuals.
On a sporting level, the time change sometimes creates unusual situations. For example, a friendly match between Portugal and Mexico scheduled for the night of March 28 to 29, 2026 begins precisely as time advances in Europe. For Portuguese spectators, the kick-off occurs at 1:59 a.m., and the next second jumps directly to 3 a.m., creating a symbolic time “hole”. In Brazil, the schedule remains unchanged, illustrating regional differences.
Historically, daylight saving time was introduced during the First World War to save coal, then reintroduced in the 1970s during the oil crises. Today, with improved energy efficiency and modern lifestyles, its usefulness is being questioned. The European Union has even considered its abolition, but member states are struggling to agree on a permanent time zone.
The societal implications are also notable. Businesses must adjust their schedules, public transport adapts their schedules, and families with children may experience temporary disruption. In Brazil, the abandonment of the system simplified these aspects, although some sectors, such as agriculture, had to adapt to different sunlight patterns.
In environmental terms, the energy savings achieved through daylight saving time are currently modest, particularly with the rise of renewable energy and energy-efficient technologies. Critics point out that the gains are often offset by increased consumption due to prolonged evening activities, such as using air conditioning.
The debate over daylight saving time reflects broader issues of governance and public well-being. While Europe maintains this tradition, Brazil serves as a case study for countries considering its abandonment. The future of this practice will likely depend on continued assessment of its health, economic and social impacts, in a world where priorities are changing rapidly.
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