Earth Hour marks its ‘hour of no power’ for the sixth year running on Saturday.
Since its original launch in Sydney, over 40 per cent of Australians now take part in the initiative, four times more than 2007.
Now, it is embraced by over 100 countries and 1.8 billion people worldwide.
Dermot O’Gorman, CEO of WWF-Australia attributed the continued success of Earth Hour to social media platforms such as Facebook and YouTube.
The medium has united those who are passionate about protecting the planet, showcasing and celebrating their sustainable contributions.
Mr O’Gorman said: “It is a very powerful tool to connect people around the world who care about the planetary crisis we are facing.”
He believes it is the real community stories that innovate Earth Hour, maintaining participation all year round.
“It has helped move beyond the hour, showing it is the practical things in everyday life that collectively make a difference,” he said.
Mr O’Gorman highlights that it isn’t just individuals doing their part.
A growing theme is businesses realising it is not only good environmental sense, but it’s good business sense to be environmentally aware.
Sydney’s DEXUS Property Group is a proud participant of Earth Hour, last year securing 98 per cent involvement from their office portfolio Australia-wide.
Michael Lane, Head of Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability has said that DEXUS has pledged an ongoing commitment to reducing environmental impact.
“Our office is certified carbon neutral under NCOS standards. This is a commitment that binds us to further energy reduction initiatives in the workplace,” Mr Lane said.
For those challenged by the lack of financial support and knowledge, the City of Sydney and Local Carbon Australia Ltd will be helping to find funds and technical solutions to use less energy.
The City ‘s chief executive Monica Barone, said the program consists of seminars, workshops and marketing materials to boost energy efficiency in businesses and other properties.
“This is part of the City’s program to reduce carbon emissions by 70 per cent by 2030,” she said.
The WWF Earth Hour Awards celebrates grassroots efforts of those championing for a greener future. Vote for your local entries at wwf.org.au.
By Lynn Chinnock
