The Great British switch off!
THIS WEEKEND SCOTLAND JOINS IN THE WORLD’S BIGGEST ENVIRONMENTAL EVENT
It’s the most spectacular – and unusual – light show on Earth. At 8.30pm on Saturday, hundreds of Scottish landmarks, from Eilean Donan Castle to Edinburgh Castle, will be plunged into darkness for the tenth anniversary of Earth Hour.
They’ll be joined by millions of homes, businesses and schools in more than 170 countries who will turn their lights off for 60 minutes in support of tackling climate change.
In total, more than six million people in the UK are expected to turn off their lights, with the Kelpies and Stirling Castle among more than 12,000 landmarks and national monuments worldwide signing up to take part in the environmental extravaganza.
BIGGEST YET Earth Hour started in Australia in 2007, with the UK joining in the following year. In 2016, over six million people in the UK took part. Supported by players of People’s Postcode Lottery, this year’s Earth Hour, organised by WWF, is set to be the biggest yet.
Hearts Football Club and Inverness Caledonian Thistle will be switching off the lights at their parks, along with the Scottish Parliament, Glasgow University and the Forth Bridge.
INSPIRE MILLIONS However, the initiative is not about how much energy is saved during the hour. Instead it’s a chance for people to unite, put the spotlight on climate change action and inspire people to live more sustainably.
The world is changing – fast – and now is a crucial time to show support for action on issues facing the planet. It’s been the hottest year on record for the third year in a row and nearly one in six species is at risk of extinction from climate change.
By taking part you’ll send a strong message that you want action on climate change to protect the planet.
It’s easy to join in – just make sure your lights are out! You can also hold a bigger event to get your community involved. How about hosting a candlelit dinner, a quiz at your local pub or arranging a stargazing party and a night-time wildlife walk? To find out how you can make the most of Earth Hour 2017 visit wwfscotland.org.uk/earthhour
You can spread the word online too by using the hashtag #EarthHour on all of your Twitter, Facebook and Instagram posts!