A Lightbulb Moment for Earth Hour Participants

If things seem unusually dark between 8.30pm and 9.30pm this Saturday night, there’s a powerful reason behind it. Millions around the world—including here in Australia—will switch off their lights for Earth Hour, a symbolic global movement that began in Sydney in 2007. What started with 2.2 million Sydneysiders has since grown into a planet-wide initiative involving over 190 countries and thousands of cities across seven continents.

But Earth Hour isn’t just about turning off the lights for 60 minutes. It’s about sparking change, inspiring action, and shifting the way we live and work to create a sustainable future.

What Is Earth Hour Really About?

Earth Hour aims to raise awareness of climate change, biodiversity loss and energy overconsumption. But its broader goal is to encourage people to think—and act—beyond the hour.

Andy Ridley, co-founder and former CEO of Earth Hour, once said the mission is threefold:

• To unite people through a symbolic, collective action
• To motivate long-term behavioural change toward sustainability
• To create a connected global community working for the planet’s future

In 2025, that message is more urgent than ever. The latest report from the Australian Climate Service underscores the increasing intensity of extreme weather events linked to climate change—making local action more important than ever.

Beyond the Hour: How to Take Sustainable Action Year-Round

Switching off your lights during Earth Hour is a great start. But what really matters is what you do when the lights come back on. Whether you’re an individual looking to make lifestyle changes or a professional seeking purpose, there are tangible ways to make a difference.

1. Make Small Lifestyle Shifts

• Switch to renewable energy plans
• Reduce single-use plastics
• Use public transport or cycle more often
• Opt for plant-rich meals

Check out energy-saving tips from energy.gov.au for more household actions you can take today.

2. Get Involved in Sustainability Advocacy

Join local clean-up groups, get active in community gardens, or volunteer with climate-focused organisations like The Climate Council. Every action counts.

3. Turn Passion into Profession

Climate-conscious careers are on the rise, with the sustainability sector seeing consistent job growth. You don’t need to be a scientist to make a difference—roles range from policy and education to urban planning and ESG (environmental, social, governance) consulting.

Explore nationally recognised, online qualifications in fields like:

• Environmental science
• Sustainability and climate policy
• Climate science and energy

These courses offer flexible learning and are ideal for career changers, upskillers or anyone looking to have a meaningful impact in their working life.

Join the Movement, Start Something Bigger

This Earth Hour, light a candle, power down your devices, and take time to reflect on your environmental impact—and your potential to lead change. Whether you commit to greener habits, advocate in your community, or pursue a purpose-driven career in sustainability, every action matters.

Explore our range of online environmental courses and find out how you can make a difference—starting today.