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Earth Hour 2025: A Global Stand For The Planet

At 8:30 pm on Saturday, 22 March 2025, millions around the world will switch off their lights for one hour in a symbolic act of environmental solidarity. Earth Hour, organized by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), has grown into a powerful global movement since its inception in 2007. This year, iconic landmarks from London to Liverpool will go dark, reminding us of the urgent need to tackle climate change and protect our planet’s natural resources.

Why Earth Hour Matters

What began as a local initiative in Sydney, Australia, with 2.2 million participants, has now spread to over 190 countries. Earth Hour is more than just turning off lights—it’s a call to action. By participating, individuals, businesses, and governments signal their commitment to a sustainable future.

This year’s campaign continues to emphasize the interconnected crises of climate change and biodiversity loss, encouraging communities to rethink consumption habits, reduce energy use, and adopt eco-conscious practices.

Larnaca Joins The Global Movement

In Cyprus, Larnaca is taking an active role in Earth Hour 2025. From 8:30 to 9:30 pm, the city will turn off the lights of the Kamara Monument and Salina Park, urging residents to do the same. More than a symbolic gesture, Larnaca’s participation aligns with the ‘Zero Food Waste’ initiative, reinforcing the importance of mindful consumption and reducing food waste.

“As part of this campaign, we are sending a strong message to protect our planet and promote sustainable habits,” the municipality stated, highlighting its commitment to raising awareness and encouraging responsible environmental practices.

How To Get Involved

Joining Earth Hour is simple—just switch off your lights for 60 minutes. But the impact goes beyond that. Here are a few meaningful ways to take part:

  • Spend time outdoors, appreciating nature without screens.
  • Host a candle-lit dinner with locally sourced, sustainable food.
  • Take the opportunity to unplug from digital devices and reflect on ways to reduce your environmental footprint.
  • Engage in discussions with friends and family about sustainability and small changes that can make a difference.

A Symbolic Gesture With Real Impact

Earth Hour serves as a powerful reminder that collective action matters. From the London Eye to Larnaca’s Kamara Monument, cities across the world are standing together in the fight against climate change. Whether through energy conservation, reducing waste, or supporting eco-friendly policies, every step counts toward building a more sustainable future.

Will you switch off for Earth Hour?

Price Shifts: Temu And Shein React To Upcoming Tariffs

The online shopping world experienced a jolt as Temu and Shein, popular e-commerce platforms, recently adjusted their prices due to impending tariff changes. These platforms, known for offering budget-friendly options, have echoed with changes that might surprise many shoppers.

What Sparked the Price Hike?

Effective next week, a significant tariff will impact goods imported from China. This tariff follows the expiration of the “de minimis” exemption on May 2. This exemption previously allowed American shoppers to skip tariffs on items valued under $800. The new tariff demands a 120% fee or a flat $100 per postal item, increasing to $200 come June 1.

For instance, Temu’s two patio chairs jumped from $61.72 to $70.17 overnight, while a bathing suit on Shein saw a 91% surge in price. Yet, the price landscape isn’t consistently upward; a smart ring on Temu dropped by $3.

Implications for Consumers

Due to economic shifts and evolving trade rules, both Shein and Temu emphasized their efforts to maintain quality and affordability despite costlier operational expenses. They advised consumers to shop before April 25 to dodge the upcoming hikes, though it’s uncertain if this timing affects the 120% tariff applicability.

Impact on Lower-Income Households

The discontinuation of the “de minimis” exemption is poised to hit lower-income families hardest. Reports indicate these households spend a higher income proportion on apparel, and this change could burden them further.

Further economic insights highlight how industries adjust to challenges, such as in the face of AI-driven changes, potentially offsetting emissions concerns with economic gains.

For buyers and businesses alike, the shifting sands of trade laws call for adaptability and forethought.

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