This upcoming Saturday is Earth Hour, the largest global environmental movement. Earth Hour was actually created in Sydney in 2007, but since then has grown to include millions of people around the world in over 190 countries. The program involves individuals, schools, families and organisations across the globe coming together to show support and concern for the future of our planet by switching off all unnecessary lights and technology for one hour. 

Earth Hour also creates many petitions and brings attention to environmental issues in the attempt to raise awareness and bring needed change to the world. Over the years it has been the force behind many environmental achievements. For example, Russia legislated to protects its seas from oil pollution after receiving a petition that was part of Earth Hour’s “I will if you will” challenge. Earth Hour has also helped to plant over 17 million trees in Kazakhstan and provide renewable energy and fuel efficient stoves to families in Nepal and Madagascar. Many iconic landmarks are also switching off their lights in support of Earth Hour this Saturday such as the Eiffel Tower, Colloseum in Rome and St Peter’s Square.

Due to COVID-19, this year’s program will be slightly different and include the first ever Earth Hour Visual Spotlight program, which is comprised of a video. Though the actual contents of the video are a secret, we know the aim of the video is to explore and expose the issues our planet faces from a new perspective. See here for more information on the initiative. 

Below are a couple of fun activities or easy things you can do over the school holidays to positively affect and help the environment.

Fun activities:

1. Start a vegetable garden or grow a worm farm
2. Ride your bike instead of driving
3. Go on nature walks
4. Do some thrift shopping at an Op Shop or at Vinnies (which we were able to raise $3000 worth of clothes for, thanks to all of the generous donations to our clothes drive)

Easy things you can do to make a difference:

1. Recycle and use your FOGO bin
2. Turn off all lights and air conditioners when you’re not using them
3. Use reusable shopping bags
4. Save water – don’t leave that tap running

We hope you all have an amazing, well-deserved break and that you enjoy Earth Hour this Saturday at 8.30 pm!

All the best, from your Sustainability Committee