Barcelona’s iconic Sagrada Familia basilica joined the global Earth Hour movement on Saturday. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is also a major tourist attraction. It switched off its lights for one hour from 20:30 to 21:30. This symbolic act, alongside the historic Castell de Montjuïc, marked the 20th anniversary of the worldwide initiative.
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The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) launched the initiative two decades ago. WWF stated that “millions of people in over 190 countries and territories across all latitudes” participated. This annual event consistently takes place on the last Saturday of March.
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Across Spain, numerous recognisable buildings also extinguished their lights, according to the WWF website. These included Madrid’s Cibeles Palace and Seville’s Torre del Oro, demonstrating widespread national participation.
Global Participation in Earth Hour
Earth Hour originated in Sydney, Australia, as a “symbolic gesture to draw attention to the problem of climate change.” It began with the simple act of turning off lights in buildings and monuments for one hour.
The organisation asserts that what started as a symbolic act has evolved into “the largest global movement for nature and climate.” It has become “a spark of hope” inspiring cities, businesses, and homes worldwide.
From Symbolic Gesture to Global Movement
For its 20th edition, WWF highlighted the “undeniable” impacts of climate change. These impacts are particularly severe in countries like Spain. The organisation emphasised that “collective action drives agreements, accelerates clean energy, protects ecosystems, and recovers species.”
Barcelona’s continued participation underscores the city’s commitment to environmental awareness. It encourages its 1.6 million residents and millions of annual tourists. They are urged to consider their own impact on the planet.
Originally published by El Periódico Barcelona. Read original article.
