Earth Hour: A Simple Action for a Better Planet
Earth Hour is a global event that takes place every year in March. In 2025 this is March 22. On this day, people around the world turn off their lights for one hour, from 8:30 PM to 9:30 PM, to show their commitment to protecting the planet. Earth Hour is more than just switching off lights; it is a reminder that small actions can make a big difference in fighting climate change and protecting the environment.
The History of Earth Hour
Earth Hour started in 2007 in Sydney, Australia, as an initiative by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF). The goal was to encourage people and businesses to reduce their energy use and think about ways to help the environment. The first Earth Hour was a huge success, with over 2.2 million people and thousands of businesses turning off their lights.
Since then, Earth Hour has grown into a global movement, with more than 190 countries and millions of people taking part every year. Famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Sydney Opera House, and the CN Tower in Toronto have gone dark for an hour to support the cause.
Why Earth Hour is Important
Earth Hour is important because it raises awareness about climate change, pollution, and energy conservation. While turning off lights for one hour may not solve all environmental problems, it sends a strong message that people care about the planet. The event encourages individuals, businesses, and governments to take real action, such as using renewable energy, reducing waste, and protecting forests and oceans.
How Climate Change Affects the Planet
Climate change is caused by greenhouse gas emissions, which come from burning fossil fuels like coal, oil, and gas. These gases trap heat in the atmosphere, making the Earth’s temperature rise. Some of the harmful effects of climate change include:
- Rising temperatures leading to extreme weather events like heatwaves and wildfires.
- Melting ice caps and rising sea levels, which can flood coastal cities.
- More intense storms, hurricanes, and droughts, harming people and wildlife.
- Loss of forests and habitats, putting many animal species at risk.
Earth Hour reminds people that we must take urgent action to slow down climate change and protect nature.
How People Participate in Earth Hour
Earth Hour is an easy event to join. People take part by:
- Turning off non-essential lights and electronics for one hour.
- Spending time outdoors, having candlelit dinners, or enjoying screen-free activities.
- Sharing messages on social media to spread awareness.
- Supporting green initiatives, like planting trees or reducing plastic waste.
Many cities and organizations also organize Earth Hour events, such as concerts, discussions, and environmental clean-ups.
Earth Hour is a simple but powerful way to show support for the environment. By switching off lights for just one hour, people around the world come together to send a message about the urgent need to fight climate change and protect nature. While one hour may not change everything, it inspires individuals, businesses, and governments to take bigger and lasting actions for a sustainable future. Every small step counts, and Earth Hour is a great reminder that we all have a role to play in saving our planet.
If you are interested in an environmental career, you may need post-secondary education to obtain a job. Be sure to check out the Canada Learning Bond to see if you are eligible for free money to attend post-secondary school.
