The City of Johannesburg, in collaboration with the World Wide Fund (WWF) and the South African National Biodiversity Institute, hosted hundreds of residents for the special Earth Hour outdoor celebration on Saturday 22 March 2025 at the Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens under the theme “Biggest Hour for Earth”.
Earth Hour is a worldwide movement that unites people across the globe to make a powerful statement for nature. It also calls for the protection of the planet and for people to take a stand against climate change.
Since its launch in 2007, it has served as a global moment of unity aimed at raising awareness about urgent environmental issues.
The event featured a range of activities and competitions directly aligned with Earth Hour’s commitment to sustainability, encouraging behaviors that support a more energy-efficient and environmentally conscious community.
Attendees were inspired to plan their own eco-friendly activities to observe Earth Hour such as organising tree-planting events, hosting plogging (jogging and trash collection) activities, preparing sustainability-focused lunches, offering outdoor yoga sessions inspired by nature, taking walks, and even organising zero-waste group picnics.
WWF South Africa’s efforts during last year’s campaign resulted in a remarkable achievement, with the country ranking among the top 10 worldwide for participation and engagement. Building on this success, WWF is determined to make Earth Hour 2025 an even more significant and impactful event.
Earth Hour is about acting for our planet, and this challenge encourages people to make small but impactful changes in their daily routines. By walking more instead of using vehicles, participants contribute to reducing their carbon footprint, promoting sustainable living, and inspiring others to do the same. This initiative amplifies Earth Hour’s message of collective action for the environment.
“We are grateful to everyone who took time to join us today, your participation reflects our shared commitment to sustainability and climate resilience,” said Mzukisi Gwata, Principal Specialist, Climate Change and Adaptation at the City’s Environment & Infrastructure Services Department. “Joburg takes pride in initiatives such as energy-saving programmes and urban greening projects which are helping to shape a greener and healthier city”, he concluded.
As part of WWF South Africa’s commitment to reaching broader communities, the organisation is expanding Earth Hour 2025 by hosting free community movie screenings across the country in rural, township, and peri-urban areas. These screenings, scheduled from 15 to 31 March, combine entertainment with important environmental education.
Written by Dudu Lushaba