Earth Hour not just lights off

While the Earth Hour movement was originally observed by switching off lights for an hour every 22 March in a symbolic gesture to relieve the planet from pollution from power generation, the practice has evolved over the years to include other actions promoting sustainability. Alternatives were demonstrated by SM Cares’ observance of the annual event as the CSR arm of SM Supermalls mixed lights-off events with related activities at various branches of the shopping mall nationwide.

Malls hosted musical performances, arts and craft and fitness activities so shoppers can experienced an hour away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life with live music, an LED dance at SM Center Ormoc and fun run at SM City Marikina.

More than 200 cyclists joined the Earth Hour: Go & Glow Bike Challenge 2025 by pedaling forward to SM City San Mateo to promote energy conservation.

Grooving and glowing, customers in SM City Masinag danced to ignite the community for a greener future.

In partnership with UPB Astronomy Society and Baguio Astronomy Enthusiasts, students enjoy a magical cosmic experience in SM City Baguio.

Young volunteers in SM City Butuan spent an hour away from their phones and reconnect with the community.

SM also engaged students from National University and Asia Pacific College in creating a special social media campaign showcasing how they can “Give an Hour for Earth.” The videos (https://bit.ly/SMEarthHour2025-NUxSM and https://bit.ly/SMEarthHour2025-APCxSM) highlight the importance of disconnecting online to reconnect with the environment and the community.

According to PwC Isla Lipana and Co., the total energy saved during the one-hour switch-off in 87 SM malls nationwide will be equivalent to 319,759 smartphones recharged or 1.4 tons of waste recycled.