Bangkok will join millions worldwide in a symbolic stand against climate change during Earth Hour 2025, with Governor Chadchart Sittipunt calling on residents to switch off non-essential lights and appliances for 60 minutes.
On Saturday, March 22, from 8:30 PM to 9:30 PM, the city will participate in the global "60+ Earth Hour" movement alongside 190 countries and 7,000 cities. This annual demonstration of environmental solidarity invites Bangkokians to turn off decorative lighting, signage, and unnecessary electrical devices.
"This isn't just about Bangkok," Governor Chadchart emphasised. "This is about Thailand, about the world. Every light turned off is a step towards a sustainable future."
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has partnered with WWF Thailand and environmental organisations since 2008 to promote the initiative. Over 17 years of participation, the city has saved 22,537 megawatts of electricity and reduced carbon dioxide emissions by 12,272 tons. Last year's event alone cut energy consumption by 24.65 megawatts—equivalent to grounding 92 flights between Bangkok and Chiang Mai or removing diesel vehicles for 66,000 kilometers.
Five of Bangkok's most iconic landmarks will lead the citywide blackout: the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, the Giant Swing, Rama VIII Bridge, and the Golden Mount. Beyond these historic sites, all 50 district offices and local businesses have committed to participating.
The BMA is encouraging businesses, government agencies, and households to switch off decorative lighting, building signage, commercial billboards, and non-essential home illumination. Even air conditioning systems are encouraged to take a one-hour break. Social media users can support the movement with hashtags including #EarthHour2025 and #BiggestHourForEarth.
While the immediate energy savings are significant, the deeper purpose is to foster ongoing habits of conservation. The initiative demonstrates how individual actions, when multiplied across millions, create meaningful environmental impact.
The simple act of flipping a switch for sixty minutes serves as both a symbolic gesture and a practical reminder that small changes in daily habits can contribute to addressing global climate challenges.
