Earth Hour 2024: Guterres calls for global solidarity against collapsing climate

António Guterres, the United Nations (UN) secretary-general, says there is a need to fight for the future of the planet as the global climate is collapsing.

Guterres spoke in his message to mark the annual Earth Hour Day.

Earth Hour is a global event that aims to raise awareness about climate change while encouraging individuals to take action towards sustainability.

The theme for this year’s Earth Hour is “Uniting for our one shared home”, emphasising an urgent need for harmony between humanity and nature.

Scheduled to be held on March 23, individuals, communities, and businesses will turn off non-essential electric lights for one hour, from 8:30 pm to 9:30 pm.

Guterres said the Earth Hour is a “global show of solidarity” and urged people to turn off their lights during the hour.

By turning off non-essential lights for one hour, participants demonstrate their commitment to the planet and environmental conservation.

“On Earth Hour, millions of people around the world switch off the lights to shine a light on the plight of our planet,” he said.

“This year, I invite you to be one of them. The need is urgent. Our climate is collapsing. Last year was the hottest ever.

“Earth Hour is a global show of solidarity for taking a different path. It demonstrates the power each of us has in the fight for our future.

“Together, let us turn off the lights and turn the world towards a brighter future for us all.”

The environmental movement, organised by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), started in Sydney, Australia in 2007.

Earth Hour symbolises the collective power of individuals and organisations worldwide to address climate change and promote sustainability.