WWF India, in partnership with the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), conducted awareness and outreach events in Gwalior to commemorate 20 years of Earth Hour. The activities, part of WWF-India’s Environmental Information, Awareness, Capacity Building, and Livelihood Programme (EIACP), aimed to encourage people to “Give an Hour for Earth.”
The event, graced by Nameeta Prasad, Joint Secretary, MoEFCC, and Lipika Roy, Joint Director, featured the participation of trainees from the Green Skill Development Programme (GSDP) on “Nature Conservator cum Eco-Tourism Guide.” An Earth Hour awareness campaign and exhibition took place at The Scindia School, engaging students in promoting sustainable lifestyles and environmental responsibility.
Further initiatives unfolded at the Indian Institute of Tourism and Travel Management (IITTM), Gwalior, in the presence of Dr. Chandra Shekhar Barua, Assistant Professor – Tourism Studies. The observance included a symbolic lights-off from 8.30 p.m. to 9.30 p.m. to highlight the importance of energy conservation and climate action.
Earth Hour, a significant global environmental movement, celebrated its 20th anniversary this year. Originating in 2007, it has expanded into a worldwide effort spanning over 190 countries. In India, the focus has shifted from a mere lights-off gesture to encouraging individuals to dedicate an hour to the planet through various activities like clean-up drives, tree planting, and sustainability workshops.
Dr. G. Areendran, Director – Tech for Conservation, WWF-India, stressed the need for youth involvement and capacity building in environmental preservation. Students from more than 15 States and Union Territories actively participated in Earth Hour, pledging to promote sustainable living practices. GSDP students nationwide united in a lights-off event, reaffirming their commitment to Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) and Save Energy by adopting eco-friendly habits.
Iconic landmarks, heritage sites, and government buildings across the nation also observed the lights-off initiative from 8.30 p.m. to 9.30 p.m., showcasing their support for energy conservation and environmental awareness.
