Earth Hour is a global event that takes place on the fourth Saturday of March each year. Have you got enough candles?
The event was started by the World Wildlife Fund in Sydney, Australia, in 2007, and has since become a worldwide movement to promote environmental awareness and action. Between 20.30 and 21.30 local time (wherever you are), people all over the world can turn off their lights for one hour to show their support for the environment and to raise awareness about climate change.
It's designed as an opportunity for individuals, organizations, and communities to come together and take action to protect the planet.
Lisa Lee of WWF says: “Earth Hour is a moment for all of us to switch off from our busy lives, reflect, and reconnect with nature and the wellbeing benefits it provides. As landmarks, businesses, and individuals across the world turn off their lights, we can show our shared commitment to protecting the planet. This is also an opportunity to consider how we can take action as individuals and communities to restore nature and allow nature to restore us, during Earth Hour and beyond.”
The idea behind the first Earth Hour in 2007 was to demonstrate that people can take simple actions to reduce their impact on the environment and promote sustainable living. It was a huge success, with millions of people turning off their lights for one hour. Since then, Earth Hour has grown into a global movement, with tens of millions of people participating in over 180 countries around the world.
In addition to turning off their lights, people and organizations around the world are invited to take part in various events and activities to promote environmental awareness and action during Earth Hour. These may include community events, educational programs, and advocacy campaigns to support sustainability practices.
Or you can simply enjoy a candlelit dinner, passively joining one of the world’s biggest environmental movements.