Earth Hour is an iconic global movement launched by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) in 2007 that involves turning off all non-essential electricity for one hour to raise awareness of climate change and the loss of nature.
Emirates Nature-WWF (WWF’s regional representative) said 60 pavilions participated in a symbolic blackout at one-minute intervals, throughout the duration of Earth Hour.
There was also an “Earth Hour Switch Off Parade” throughout the Expo site, led by the Dubai Police Marching Band, which started at 8:30 p.m. from the Peru Pavilion in the Mobility District and continued ends at the UK Pavilion in the Opportunity District at 9:30 p.m.
In a statement sent to Gulf News after the event, Laila Mostafa Abdullatif, Chief Executive of Emirates Nature-WWF, said: “It is appropriate to have hosted this year’s event at Expo 2020 Dubai as it embodies the UAE’s vision to be at the forefront of sustainable development through innovation.
She added: “Although Expo 2020 is coming to an end [on March 31]the legacy of what was built – the ideas, cooperation and symbolism of the world in one place geared towards a prosperous future where people and the planet thrive together – illuminates how we must move forward .
“This year, we received overwhelming support from corporate entities, individuals from across the country and our country’s youth. Their participation and involvement have reinforced our belief that we are on the right path to truly shape our future. Our message to all is that this is just the beginning. It’s time to go “beyond the clock” and become a true leader of change. »
Earlier, Emirates Nature-WWF launched the “Leaders of Change” pilot program, where they honored their Green Giving conservation partners “who are committed to protecting the environment, championing conservation and preserving nature.”
Meanwhile, the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), which has also urged everyone to switch off unnecessary lights and electrical appliances in solidarity with Earth Hour, noted from 2008 to 2021, Earth Hour-Dubai has achieved cumulative savings of up to 3.12 GWh of electricity and reduced 1,607 tonnes of carbon emissions.
DEWA said Dubai is the first Arab city to participate in Earth Hour, “reflecting the emirate’s drive to raise awareness of the danger of carbon dioxide emissions to curb consumption levels and waste of resources.”
