Earth Hour is a global event held every year on the last Saturday of March. 

The first Earth Hour was held in 2007 right here in Sydney. Since then, Earth Hour has spread to over 190 country and now, hundreds of millions of people participate in the event by joining together to switch off their lights for an hour.

But it’s not only individuals that get involved in Earth Hour. Some of the world’s most significant landmarks including the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge also switch off for Earth Hour.

This symbolic gesture aims to raise awareness about the impact of climate change on our planet and encourage individuals, communities, and businesses to take action to protect the natural world in the pursuit of a sustainable future.

Earth Hour in 2023: #TimeOutForNature

The theme of Earth Hour in 2023 is #TimeOutForNature, acting as an encouragement and reminder to all of us that we should take time to be in nature and reflect on the benefits of nature.

We’ve come up with a few ideas to help inspire you to enjoy the green spaces around the hotel — whether you're staying with us, are a Wolli Creek local, or simply passing through Sydney's airport precinct. 

Where to Take Time Out for Nature in Wolli Creek

Wolli Creek, where Novotel Sydney International Airport is located, is a hidden gem. Despite being located close to the city and Sydney’s airport precinct, we’re lucky to have parkland nearby to relax and unwind in nature.

Just a few minutes walk from the hotel is Cahill Park and the Cooks River. This picturesque park offers panoramic views of the water and is a great spot for a picnic or BBQ with friends and family.

There is a shared walk and cycle way in the park so you can enjoy walking or riding alongside the river. The park is also equipped with a playground, benches, and picnic tables making it an ideal spot for a fun day out with kids.

Earth Hour at Novotel Sydney International Airport

Novotel Sydney International Airport is proud to participate in Earth Hour. In addition to our participation in the symbolic lights-out action of Earth Hour, we’re committed to pursuing sustainability in the hotel.

As an Accor Hotel, we're committed to reducing environmental impacts and combating plastic pollution. One recent initiative saw the removal of single use plastic items — including small bottles of shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, and hand wash — from guest rooms. Now, we provide the our eco-friendly bathroom products in refillable bottles. We continue to pursue sustainable options that balance guest comfort with positive changes for the environment.

Getting Involved in Earth Hour

There are many ways you can get involved in Earth Hour. One way is to simply turn off all non-essential lights for one hour during Earth Hour. Additionally, you might like to organise your own event, such as a candlelight dinner or picnic.

Businesses can also participate by turning off their lights and encouraging their employees to do the same. Whether you’re participating as an individual, business, or other organisation, you can register your participation and show your support by signing up on the Earth Hour website.

Beyond Earth Hour, you can take other actions to reduce environmental impact and contribute to a more sustainable future. This might include activities like using energy-efficient appliances and light bulbs, using a renewable-friendly energy provider, using less plastic, using public transport or carpooling, and getting involved in efforts to protect the natural environment in your local community.

The Impact of Earth Hour

Earth Hour can act as a catalyst to motivate all of us to find environmentally friendly solutions in the pursuit of a sustainable future.

According to the Earth Hour website, the event has contributed to positively influencing climate policy and environmentally-friendly laws in multiple countries, as well as the roll-out of initiatives including the planting of half a million trees in Uganda, and the replacement of kerosene lamps with solar lights in rural communities of Papua New Guinea.

Earth Hour is an important event that reminds us of the urgent need to take action to protect our planet. But Earth Hour is just the beginning. It’s up to all of us to take action every day to create a sustainable future.