Earth Hour was first launched back in 2007 in Sydney, Australia in the fight against climate change and saw more than 2.2 million people and over 2,000 organisations switch off their lights for the hour. Now Earth Hour has become a global movement in sustainability and the 2010 Earth Hour saw over 50 million people in 128 countries being involved in many different ways.

This global initiative is managed, organised and promoted by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) who draw on their 5 million supports and worldwide network to help stop the degradation of nature. Shrouded in darkness many of the world’s major landmarks stand as symbols of hope against global warming during Earth Hour, including the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Gold Gate Bridge in San Francisco and the Colosseum in Rome.

This year the theme of Earth Hour is based around what you will do when the lights go back on, so essentially getting people to think about the longer term changes they as individuals can make to their own lives to help halt climate change. Co-Founder and Executive Director of Earth Hour, Andy Ridley said “This year, we have created a dynamic online platform with social media at its very core. Social media has undoubtedly played a significant role in world events over the past few months and shown that change is possible when we all come together. We’re hopeful that this powerful combination of technology and common purpose will ensure this year’s event is more impactful than ever before”.

You can visit the Earth Hour website (www.beyondthehour.org) to be inspired about actions from other individuals and organisations as well as share your own story about what you plan to do for Earth Hour by adding your act to make our world a better place.

So make a note in your calendar for 8.30pm (local time) on Saturday 26 March to turn off the power and light some candles for an hour to do your part for the Earth. Together our actions will add up.