Environment
Earth Hour
Earth Hour is a global environmental initiative that encourages individuals, schools, and communities to turn off non-essential lights and electronics for one hour as a symbol of commitment to protecting our planet. What began as a small event in 2007 has grown into the world’s largest grassroots movement for the environment, uniting participants in over 180 countries.
Within the Toronto Catholic District School Board, Earth Hour is an opportunity for students and staff to live out our call to be stewards of God’s creation. Through simple actions—like reducing energy use and increasing awareness—our school communities can make a meaningful impact and inspire long-term environmental responsibility.
Schools are encouraged to participate through classroom activities, school-wide initiatives, and at-home engagement with families, fostering a shared commitment to sustainability.
Earth Hour Challenge and Participation
This resource outlines how TCDSB schools can take part in Earth Hour through a coordinated, board-wide initiative. It includes key dates, participation guidelines, and practical ideas such as lights-out classroom activities, school assemblies, and community engagement strategies.
The document also provides operational suggestions to ensure safe and effective participation, along with ideas to extend environmental learning beyond Earth Hour and into everyday school practices.
EcoSchools Earth Hour Campaign Kit
The EcoSchools Campaign Kit provides comprehensive tools to help schools plan, promote, and implement a successful Earth Hour campaign. It includes communication templates, activity ideas for all grade levels, and strategies to engage the whole school community.
Educators will find ready-to-use lesson ideas, school-wide initiatives, and tips for building ongoing environmental awareness, empowering students to take action both during Earth Hour and beyond.