Updated: 9.30pm

EARTH HOUR IS taking place around the world today as a mark of solidarity for action on climate change.

The hour is happening from 8.30-9.30pm locally, and countries such as Australia and Nepal have already marked the event.

Source: WWF

President Michael D Higgins and his wife Sabina asked that all non-essential lights in Áras an Uachtaráin be switched off during Earth Hour.

Source: Twitter

Landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and the Empire State Building – and millions of homes around the world – will also take part.

President Higgins Source: RollingNews.ie

Speaking about the initiative, President Higgins said: “During Earth Hour, buildings around the world switch off their lights, encouraging people to switch on their power to make a difference.

Earth Hour is a moment for us to highlight the importance of taking action to protect our vulnerable planet from the effects of climate change. We know what action needs to be taken and we have the global agreement, in the shape of the Paris Agreement and the Sustainable Development Goals.

“What we need now is the will to make those agreements a lived reality.”

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