Earth Hour 2018: What is it and what time will it happen?

For one hour every March cities across the globe switch off their lights in a symbolic call for more action on climate change.

Schools, offices and iconic landmarks are all plunged into darkness to mark the occasion.

The globally recognised event is coordinated by WWF (World Wide Fund for Nature) to remember the importance of preserving the environment.

Here is everything you need to know about the Earth Hour 2018.

When does it take place?

This year’s earth hour will take place between 8.30 and 9.30 pm (GMT) on Saturday March 24.

How do we celebrate Earth Hour?

Earth hour encourages people to ponder the effects of climate change on our planet.

WWF explained: "Earth Hour is a global movement, which brings millions together across the world to call for greater action on climate change.

“Each year, hundreds of millions of people around the world switch off their lights and organise events – at home, in their community or in their towns or cities – to show they care about the future of our planet."

How can I take part?

Anyone can take part in Earth Hour by turning off their lights and electrical appliances for the full hour.

This year WWF are inviting people to use the hashtag #connecttoearth to start conversations about the environment and the earth’s biodiversity.

WWF also outlined several other ways to get involved including switching to green energy, reusing or composting left overs, turning your washing machine down to 30 degrees and investing in a reusable water bottle.

Participants can also make their own individual pledge. On the WWF website there is a list of “promises” for participants to choose from.

This year Ariel Laundry Detergent will donate £1 to protecting the planet for each individual that promises to live a more environmentally friendly life on Earth Hour’s website.

When did Earth Hour start?

WWF’s Earth Hour campaign began as a symbolic lights out in Sydney 2007.

Since then it has grown into the largest grassroots movement for the environment in the world.

This year rings a bit differently than the rest as the WWF is using the United States’ withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement as an extra incentive to go green

Who celebrates Earth Hour?

Earth hour is celebrated all over the globe. Some of the world’s biggest landmarks including Sydney Opera House, the Eiffel Tower, Buckingham Palace and Edinburgh castle will switch off their lights.

In 2017 approximately nine million people took part in Earth hour.