Started by WWF and partners as a symbolic lights-out event in Sydney in 2007, Earth Hour is now one of the world’s largest grassroots movements for the environment. 

When does it take place? 

It is held every year on the last Saturday of March at 8.30pm. This year it is this Saturday, 27 March. Earth Hour has become a catalyst for positive environment impact, driving major legislative changes by harnessing the power of people and collective action.

How many people take part? 

Earth Hour engages millions of people in more than 180 countries and territories, switching off their lights to show support for our planet.

Over the years, the lights-off moment saw entire streets, buildings, landmarks, and city skylines go dark – an unmissable sight that drew public attention to nature loss and the climate crisis. 

What are we doing to support Earth Hour? 

Watchmoor Park will safely turn as many lights out as possible to take part in the hour. Understandably some lighting may need to be kept on for safety reasons. Thankfully a lot of our buildings have sensor lighting, so they automatically turn off when people aren’t using the buildings.  Another great way we are environmentally friendly. 

What else can I do to support Earth Hour? 

In addition to switching off your lights, you are also being invited to raise awareness and create the same unmissable sight online. On the night of Earth Hour (March 27), just visit the website and share the must-watch video on all of your social media pages.

Share it to your Stories or to your wall, re-Tweet it, send it via DM, tag friends in the comments – the choice is yours.

What have we done recently at Watchmoor Park to be more sustainable?  

We:

Undertook air quality testing on all multi occupier buildings.

Increased the number of electric car charging points.

Continued the LED light replacement programme in managed areas and voids.

Upgraded all taps, shower heads and WCs in managed areas to water conserving equipment.

Installed cycling and end of trip facilities in buildings.

Certified eight buildings with BREEAM In Use and achieved two ‘Excellent’ ratings and six ‘Very Good’ ratings.