Eden Prairie is joining hundreds of millions of people around the globe to participate in Earth Hour, the world’s largest public action to stand in solidarity for the protection of the planet.
As a symbol of the city’s commitment to the environment, Eden Prairie’s iconic water tower clocks will go dark at 8:30 p.m. Saturday, March 26.
According to a news release, the city’s participation in this global event acknowledges its continued focus on actions that benefit the community and the environment.
By setting an example, the city also encourages others in the community to turn off non-essential lights in their homes and businesses from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m. and to make a commitment to go beyond the hour with positive action for the environment year-round.
World Wild Fund for Nature (WWF) organized the event. Every year, at 8:30 pm on the last Saturday of March, supporters in over 190 countries and territories unite, taking action and raising awareness of Earth’s issues.
Marco Lambertini, director-general of WWF International, said this year the world will come together to agree on a Paris-style agreement for nature. This, he added, presents a once-in-a-decade opportunity for leaders to decide on a plan to reverse nature loss by 2030 and build a nature-positive future.
“We also know that in order to build a future in harmony with nature we also need peace amongst people,” he said. “Which is why this year’s Earth Hour offers a moment of solidarity with all peoples suffering from wars and conflicts around the world.”