York Region Celebrates Earth Hour 2025

On behalf of York Regional Council and The Regional Municipality of York, I am pleased to join communities around the world in celebrating Earth Hour 2025. This global event encourages individuals, businesses and governments to turn off non-essential lights for one hour, symbolizing our collective commitment to protecting the planet.

From 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 22, 2025, York Region will participate by turning off all non-essential lights at five regional facilities. This action aligns with our ongoing commitment to achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. To reach this goal, we continue to electrify our transit fleet, expand the use of solar electricity production and reduce energy consumption across our facilities.

To further drive environmental stewardship and protect our natural environment, York Region’s Climate Change Action Plan sets a path for reduced emissions and prepares for our future climates with actions to mitigate and adapt to the effects of climate change. Sustaining and protecting our natural environment is a key priority for Regional Council. Through industry-leading management practices, conservation, tree planting, education and invasive species control, York Region strives to protect our forests and ensure a sustainable environment for future generations.

Earth Hour is not just about turning off lights for one hour; it is about sparking global conversation and collective action to address the pressing issue of climate change. By participating in Earth Hour, we demonstrate our commitment to preserving our planet for future generations. Let’s use this moment to reflect on the impact of our actions and pledge to adopt more sustainable practices in our daily lives.

Together, we can make a difference and create a more sustainable and resilient world for all.

Eric Jolliffe
York Region Chairman and CEO
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Media Contact: 
Corporate Communications, The Regional Municipality of York
Phone: 1-877-464-9675, ext. 71234 
YR.Corporate.Communications@york.ca