On Saturday evening, hundreds of people gathered at St George’s Square, Valletta to participate in activities marking Earth Hour, a worldwide environmental movement advocating for sustainable energy and climate change awareness.
The Ministry for the Environment, Energy and Public Cleanliness joined over 190 countries in hosting this event. Through collaboration with various stakeholders, between 8.30pm and 9.30pm, landmarks and buildings across Malta and Gozo were switched off in a collective gesture for Earth Hour. Participants placed candles in front of the Grand Master’s Place, forming the event’s “60” Earth Hour logo.
Francine Pace Caruana, Director for Sustainable Development within the same Ministry, said that the aim of this initiative is to raise awareness about climate change and the responsible use of energy and other resources. “Small changes in our daily lives can make a difference,” she added.
The event featured a marching band from the Cospicua Scouts Group, representing the idea that everyone can unite to make a positive difference. In addition to local entertainment, entities within the Ministry, including Ambjent Malta, the Environment and Resources Authority, the Energy and Water Agency, Circular Economy Malta, the Grand Harbour Regeneration Corporation, Wasteserv, Water Services Corporation, Project Green, the Sustainable Development Directorate, and the Saving Our Blue campaign, joined the event and gave the public the opportunity to learn more about the environment and sustainability through information and interactive activities.
The public was also given the opportunity to enjoy a projection on the façade of the Grand Master’s Palace emphasising the need of protecting our environment by being actively involved and appreciate our surroundings.
The public is also encouraged to follow the Sostennibilità social media channels for more activities and information.
Photo (DOI/MEEC)
