Earth Hour started in 2007 in Sydney, Australia when 2.2 million individuals and more than 2,000 businesses turned their lights off for one hour to take a stand against climate change. Only a year later and Earth Hour had become a global sustainability movement with more than 50 million people across 35 countries participating.


Locally, Spokane Mayor Mary Verner is encouraging citizens to participate in the effort and as part of the recognition of Earth Hour, the lights will be turned off at the top of the Riverfront Park Pavilion. Some of you may recall the ridiculous melee in front of City Hall between Earth Day organizers and the so-called Spokane Patriots last year. (It was a night to remember - they were apparently upset because too many in Spokane go beyond the hour.)

 “People across the world from all walks of life turned off their lights and came together in celebration and contemplation of the one thing we all have in common – our planet,” he said.
 
Grum added: “We need energy for everything – to get to work, to stay warm, cook dinner, watch TV… the list goes on. But the way we use energy and the way it’s produced has impacts on the environment – particularly contributing to climate change through carbon emissions. Climate change is the biggest threat to our planet right now but the good news is we can all do something about it.”

Also, check the video of Prime Minister David Cameron supporting WWF’s Earth Hour and their assesement.