You don't have to be a treehugger to acknowledge Earth Hour in Hong Kong.
I’ll be honest: I’m no climate crusader, but I do believe that by now, we all understand the importance of doing our part for the planet whenever we can. Whether it’s supporting sustainable fashion, thrifting at vintage shops, or sprinkling a vegetarian meal or two in our routines, every small action adds up. And as we prepare to unplug from the world during Earth Hour 2025, we have the perfect opportunity to power down – not just for the planet, but for ourselves, too. So, dim those screens and embrace the calm – here are some easy ways you can join in on Earth Hour in Hong Kong, and my personal tips for taking eco-conscious living beyond those 60 minutes.
Lights off: Tune into Earth Hour in Hong Kong
First things first – what is Earth Hour?
Launched in Sydney in 2007 by WWF (World Wildlife Fund), Earth Hour has since grown into one of the world’s largest grassroots movements for the planet. Uniting millions across 190 countries, it’s all about powering down non-essential lights for one hour to shine a light on environmental challenges – ironically, by turning off our lights. Earth Hour gives us individuals the agency to drive change, inspiring communities, businesses, and governments to take tangible action toward a brighter, more sustainable future.
How to celebrate Earth Hour in Hong Kong
1. Just flip the switch
It’s incredibly easy to join the Biggest Hour for Earth: just switch off your lights, light some the candles, and relish the quiet from 8.30 to 9.30pm on 22 March 2025 (Saturday) in your timezone. (I’ll be turning off my TV and keeping the AC off, too!) No registration is required – just a little initiative to make a difference.
Worried you’ll get bored during your 60 minutes free from power? The team at Earth Hour invites you to “give” your hour doing something you love while staying eco-conscious. Of course, you’re welcome to do these activities outside of Earth Hour as well and “banking” your hour is entirely optional. Personally, I plan to stay offline and catch up on my reading. Other ideas include cooking up a plant-based meal, getting crafty and upcycling (little ones will love this!), and going for a walk outdoors to reconnect with nature.
2. Explore the Earth Hour Carnival 2025
Follow the lead of local icons to celebrate Earth Hour in Hong Kong! Held on 22 March, the Earth Hour Carnival features creative workshops, interactive educational booths, and captivating performances. Bring your kids along to enjoy a children’s musical, a mini concert by independent singers Mic Chow and Mark Chan, and a stand-up show by comedian Tim Chan. You can also work with ceramists to create animal sculptures or visit the pop-up repair station to learn how to breathe new life into old items. With ambassadors Kaho Hung and Ian Chan (from Mirror) officiating the lights-off ceremony at 7.45pm, the Earth Hour Carnival is the perfect prelude to the start of Earth Hour at 8.30pm.
Earth Hour Carnival 2025, Ocean Terminal Deck, Harbour City, 3-27 Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
3. Sip Earth Hour-exclusive sustainable cocktails
Let’s be honest: they don’t have to do this, but some Hong Kong hotels are really stepping up to raise awareness and promote change for our planet – and I think that’s something worth celebrating. If you agree with me, head to Alibi – Wine Dine Be Social at Cordis, Hong Kong for its zero-waste cocktails, created to commemorate Earth Hour and International Day of Zero Waste (30 March). Priced from $138 each, the two special cocktails – All My Favourite Colours and Spent, Leftover & Unsold – are crafted from surplus ingredients, such as coffee grounds, lemon zest, and waffle crumbs, showcasing innovative ways to reduce waste while offering tasty, eco-friendly flavours. Staying guests can also partake in a complimentary Zero-waste Cocktail Workshop on 22 March.
Alibi – Wine Dine Be Social, Level 5, Cordis, Hong Kong, 555 Shanghai Street, Mong Kok, Hong Kong, p. 3552 3231
4. Enjoy sustainable dining experiences
Marriott International is also joining the global Earth Hour movement by turning off non-essential lights and hosting eco-friendly activities across 14 properties in Hong Kong. Among them, The Ritz-Carlton, W Hong Kong, JW Marriott, Sheraton, SkyCity Marriott Hotel, Renaissance Harbour View Hotel, and Courtyard by Marriott Hong Kong Sha Tin are specially offering sustainable food and drinks. I especially had a blast at Le Meridien Cyberport’s unique “Dans Le Noir” dinner, during which I fine-dined in pitch darkness! Give it a try yourself on 22 March, and you’ll even be treated to a complimentary welcome drink for Earth Hour.
Dans Le Noir Hong Kong, Le Meridien Hong Kong Cyberport, 100 Cyberport Road, Pok Fu Lam, Hong Kong, p. 2980 7417
Going beyond Earth Hour: What’s next?
Besides Earth Hour, you can create an impact all year round. For instance, Marriott Hotels are implementing long-term sustainability initiatives, including recycling programmes, water-saving taps, and soap recycling. But what about on an individual level? Here’s how I’ve started making small changes in my daily life – and you can, too.
1. Understand what sustainability really is
More than just a buzzword, sustainability is a commitment to ensuring future generations can enjoy the planet as we have. So, rethink your daily habits – from what you buy to how you live. But don’t stress about being perfect either! My motto is to stay consistent and keep growing along the way.
2. Reduce your energy consumption
Earth Hour is a great start, but reducing energy use should be a year-round effort. A few simple habits I’ve adopted include switching off lights and air-conditioners when not in use, cutting down on shower time (I’ll admit, I’m guilty of long showers!), and using plants to purify the air at home instead of energy-guzzling gadgets. I’ve also been trying to be a more responsible traveller by choosing public transport, lower-emission flights, and Eco Deals whenever possible.
3. Cut out single-use plastics
What once seemed impossible is now the new norm. Thanks to Hong Kong’s 2024 ban on single-use plastics, they’re becoming a rare sight in our daily lives. But if they’re still sneaking into yours – like those cheeky condiment packets, beer pong cups, and bubble wrap – it’s time to opt for sustainable alternatives and make the 3Rs (reduce, reuse, recycle) a habit. Trust me: it’s easier than you think!
4. Save water
Did you know everyday items – from your favourite pair of jeans to your family car – require gallons of water to produce? It’s not just about taking shorter showers or turning off the tap; it’s also about reevaluating your diet, shopping habits, and especially your fashion choices. To help you make water-wise decisions, I recommend using this trusty online water calculator. Remember: every drop counts (though you don’t need to skimp on staying hydrated)!
Learn more about Earth Hour in Hong Kong, organised by WWF-Hong Kong as a part of Earth Hour worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is meant by Earth Hour?
Earth Hour is a global movement organised by WWF where individuals, communities, and businesses turn off non-essential lights for one hour (8.30-9.30pm local time) on the last Saturday of March. It’s a symbolic act to raise awareness about climate change and inspire action for a sustainable future.
How long is the Earth Hour?
Earth Hour lasts for one hour, from 8.30 to 9.30pm local time on the last Saturday of March. During this time, people worldwide turn off non-essential lights to show support for climate action and sustainability.
What is the purpose of the Earth Hour 2025?
Earth Hour 2025 aims to unite millions globally in turning off non-essential lights for one hour, symbolising collective action against climate change. It encourages individuals, businesses, and governments to adopt sustainable practices, protect nature, and create a healthier planet for future generations.
