In a powerful demonstration of global solidarity, Islamabad joined the world in observing Earth Hour 2025, marking the 19th edition of the largest grassroots environmental movement. From 8:30 pm local time, major landmarks across the city switched off their lights in a symbolic gesture to promote environmental consciousness, reduce energy consumption, and call for urgent climate action.
This year’s Earth Hour is particularly significant, coinciding with World Water Day, amplifying the global message of conserving water and addressing the effects of climate change.
Pakistan’s commitment to environmental sustainability
Multiple landmarks in Islamabad, including the President House, Prime Minister House, Parliament House, Supreme Court of Pakistan, Islamabad High Court, Pakistan Monument, D-Chowk, Pak-China Friendship Centre, Convention Centre and Jinnah Avenue switched off their lights to show commitment to the Earth.
While in Karachi, Mohatta Palace and OICCI building will observe Earth Hour. The main buildings in Lahore, including the Punjab Assembly, Alhamra – Lahore Arts Council, WAPDA House, and Shalimar Gardens, will switch off the lights.
President of Pakistan Asif Ali Zardari delivered a message affirming the country’s commitment to energy conservation. He stated, “On this year’s Earth Hour, we stand with the global community in reaffirming our commitment to energy conservation, environmental sustainability, and climate action. As we switch off non-essential lights, let this act serve as a symbol of our resolve to reduce energy consumption, minimize our carbon footprint, and protect Pakistan’s ecosystems.”
Citing energy challenges as rising fuel costs, power shortages, and inefficient energy, President Zardari emphasized urgent action to conserve electricity, reduce fuel consumption, and adopt renewable energy resources to build a secure and sustainable future
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif also voiced the country’s support, acknowledging that while Pakistan contributes less than one percent to global greenhouse gas emissions, it remains one of the most climate-vulnerable nations. “Despite contributing less than one percent to global greenhouse gas emissions, Pakistan is among the most climate-vulnerable countries,” Sharif said. He further emphasized that true change begins at home, with every individual’s action playing a role in shaping a sustainable future.
Broader impact of Earth Hour
The significance of Earth Hour extends beyond merely switching off lights. It serves as a platform for raising awareness and mobilizing individuals, communities, and governments worldwide to take concrete steps towards environmental conservation.
Hammad Naqi Khan, Director General of WWF-Pakistan, highlighted the challenges faced by Pakistan due to climate events like super floods, heatwaves, and droughts. These climate-driven crises continue to strain the country’s resources and ecosystems. “Earth Hour is a powerful reminder of the urgency of addressing these challenges. It is not just about switching off lights but about switching on a global movement for change,” he said.
In support of this cause, WWF-Pakistan organized various activities across the country. Students and faculty members at Karachi University and the University of Sargodha participated in tree plantation drives aimed at raising awareness about the pressing need for climate action.
Additionally, WWF-Pakistan hosted a webinar to educate the public about the challenges of climate change and water conservation. The organization also collaborated with various partners, including Centaurus Mall in Islamabad and Emporium Mall in Lahore, to host interactive activities for children to learn about environmental conservation in a fun and engaging way.
WWF-Pakistan goodwill ambassador and TV actress Ushna Shah said that “Earth Hour is more than a moment that has continued to inspire and mobilize people across the globe. It reminds us of our collective actions and responsibility to create a more hopeful and resilient future for people and our planet.,” Other goodwill ambassadors, including Sophiya Anjam, Aisam Ul Haq, Samar Khan, and Ayesha Omar, also joined the movement by sharing social media messages, videos, and photos, showcasing how they are giving an hour to Earth.
Call for Water Conservation: Earth Hour & Water Day
This year, Earth Hour coincided with World Water Day, which underscored the importance of conserving freshwater resources. Pakistan faces significant water challenges, including declining water availability, over-extraction, and mismanagement of resources. The alignment of Earth Hour with World Water Day brings greater attention to these issues, urging governments, businesses, and communities to take immediate action to preserve and protect water resources for future generations.
Chairman of Pakistan’s Senate, Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani, recognized the importance of this year’s Earth Hour, particularly its focus on water conservation. This year’s alignment with “World Water Day” under the theme “Give an Hour for Water” underscores the urgency of addressing Pakistan’s water challenges, he said. “As stewards of public trust, we acknowledge the critical role of energy and water conservation in mitigating environmental degradation and building climate resilience,” he added.
WWF-Pakistan’s efforts in Forest and Water Conservation
As part of its broader environmental initiatives, WWF-Pakistan has long championed the preservation of forests, which are crucial for controlling floods and droughts, and sustaining biodiversity. Despite ongoing efforts to combat deforestation, Pakistan continues to lose approximately 11,000 hectares of forest cover annually due to deforestation, wildfires, and land conversion for agricultural and commercial purposes. WWF-Pakistan advocates for a comprehensive approach that involves government agencies, local communities, and civil society organizations working together to protect and restore these vital ecosystems.
Forests are essential for regulating climate conditions, controlling floods and droughts, and providing social and economic benefits, said Hammad Naqi Khan. “Replanting and restoring degraded or destroyed forests is essential to improve food security, combat climate change, reconnect wildlife habitats, and address issues such as flooding and soil erosion. Conserving forests is, therefore, not just an environmental imperative but a social and economic necessity”, he urged.
WWF-Pakistan’s projects, including the Recharge Pakistan Program and Engro Forest Restoration and Carbon Offset Project, are critical components of the nation’s efforts to restore and protect forest cover. These initiatives aim to enhance resilience to environmental threats while supporting sustainable livelihoods and improving food security.
Earth Hour — Global Movement for Change
Earth Hour is more than just a symbolic gesture—it is a global call for action. Since its inception in 2007, the movement has inspired millions of people worldwide to take part in environmental conservation, both in large and small ways. In 2024, over 1.5 million hours were donated to Earth Hour participants across the globe, with actions ranging from energy conservation to tree planting and waste reduction. This year’s focus on both energy and water conservation reinforces the need for collective global action to combat the escalating effects of climate change.