Individuals, businesses and organisations in a record 188 countries and territories worldwide joined WWF’s Earth Hour to spark unprecedented conversation and action on stopping the loss of nature.

This year, WWF Cymru asked Wales to make a ‘Promise For The Planet’; a pledge to make one change in their individual lives or organisations to reduce their environmental footprint. The promises were chosen as examples of small changes people can make that collectively will have a big impact - including refusing plastic cutlery, carrying a reusable coffee cup or reusing leftover food.

Amgueddfa Cymru is committing to reduce their use of disposable hot drinks cups. They will tackle this by introducing their own Amgueddfa Cymru branded reusable cup. Among the site sites considering how they can reduce their impact on the planet are Big Pit National Coal Museum which has promised to install LED low energy lighting in its canteen and investigate further low energy lighting in the Pit Head Baths

On Saturday night, the National Museum Cardiff opened its doors to a special night at the museum to mark the occasion. Participants experienced the museum as never before – with a spotlight on the wildlife and nature that is threatened by climate change.

Community arts organisation Head4Arts held an amazing four events across the South East Wales valleys - Abertillery, Merthyr Tydfil, Blaenavon and Caerphilly. The ‘Year of the Sea’ events attracted hundreds from the community to mark Earth Hour through crafts, music and storytelling. The incredible lanterns were made by local ranger Ben Sands.

 

Globally, close to 18,000 landmarks switched off their lights in solidarity as people across the globe generated over 3.5 billion impressions of #EarthHour and related hashtags to show their concern for the planet. The hashtags trended in 33 countries. 

“Once again, the people have spoken through Earth Hour,” said Marco Lambertini, Director General, WWF International. “The record participation in this year’s Earth Hour, from skylines to timelines, is a powerful reminder that people want to connect to Earth. People are demanding commitment now on halting climate change and the loss of nature. The stakes are high and we need urgent action to protect the health of the planet for a safe future for us and all life on Earth."

 

There is still time to make a #PromiseForThePlanet. Visit wwf.org.uk/earthhourwales.