On March 22, 2025
Earth Hour, the world’s largest environmental movement, return for its 19th edition this year. It promises to unite millions worldwide in a shared celebration of our planet.
Scheduled for March 22, 2025, at 8:30 p.m. local time, the event invites individuals, communities, and businesses to participate in the ‘Biggest Hour for Earth’ to support environmental conservation and raise awareness about the climate crisis.
Launched in 2007 by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), Earth Hour has become a powerful symbol of global solidarity in the fight against climate change. The event is traditionally marked by a ‘lights off’ moment, where landmarks, homes, and businesses across the globe switch off their lights for one hour.
However, Earth Hour’s impact extends beyond this symbolic gesture, encouraging people to take action in their everyday lives to protect the planet.
Kirsten Schuijt, Director General of WWF International, emphasised the urgency of the cause, stating: “The stakes have never been higher. The past year was the hottest on record—capping off the hottest decade, with the hottest seas ever recorded. We’ve witnessed historic wildfires, storms, and droughts as well.
“Our world is in peril and we are rapidly approaching dangerous climate tipping points beyond which key ecosystems may never be able to recover. Earth Hour is a powerful reminder of the urgency to act while we still can.”
In 2024, over 1.5 million hours were dedicated by individuals globally as part of the ‘Give an hour for Earth’ initiative. This year, the organisers are aiming to surpass this milestone and reach two million hours, with participants encouraged to spend one hour doing something positive for the environment. Whether it’s taking a mindful walk in nature, cooking a sustainable meal, or participating in a local community event, every contribution counts.
The Hour Bank, a new feature introduced to this year’s Earth Hour campaign, offers many suggestions for how participants can give an hour for Earth. The activities cater to various interests, from sustainability-focused hobbies like gardening and cooking to watching nature documentaries and engaging in eco-friendly art projects.
Yves Calmette, Senior Director of Brand and Network Communications at Earth Hour Global, explained: “Earth Hour is all about making environmental action accessible, enjoyable, and meaningful. By aligning our actions with people’s passions and interests, we can inspire even more individuals to join the movement.”
The goal is to inspire action for a single hour and spark a long-lasting commitment to positive environmental practices. Schuijt added, “It’s not just about switching off lights; it’s about switching on a global movement for change. Engaging individuals, communities, and businesses can create a collective force that drives real impact and inspires hope for a sustainable future.”
The ‘Give an hour for Earth’ call-to-action encourages individuals to participate in the lights-off moment and dedicate 60 minutes to an activity that promotes environmental sustainability. This call to action is designed to engage people in a fun, meaningful way, regardless of their location or lifestyle.
Earth Hour has never been more relevant with the climate crisis reaching critical levels. In the past year alone, the world has experienced unprecedented weather events, from devastating wildfires to catastrophic storms and floods. As global temperatures continue to rise, the collective action symbolised by Earth Hour grows ever more critical.
Earth Hour 2025 will occur in over 180 countries and territories, with millions expected to participate. The event highlights the need for urgent and coordinated global action to address environmental challenges and calls for individuals and organisations to be part of the solution.
Since its inception, Earth Hour has been a critical moment for reflection and action, but it has also evolved into a broader movement. It has mobilised individuals, communities, and businesses worldwide to take meaningful steps to combat climate change. Earth Hour 2025 promises to be the biggest yet, inspiring millions to embrace sustainable practices, advocate for environmental protection, and make a lasting difference.
For more information on how you can participate in Earth Hour 2025 and ‘Give an hour for Earth,’ visit www.earthhour.org
Image: In 2024, over 1.5 million hours were dedicated by individuals globally as part of the ‘Give an hour for Earth’ initiative. Credit: WWF-Japan
