Earth Hour 2026: Classroom Resources and Event Information

Every year, millions of people across the globe switch off their lights for one hour in a huge show of support for our planet. Organised by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), Earth Hour has become one of the world’s most well-known environmental movements. 

When is Earth Hour 2026?

Earth Hour 2026 will take place on Saturday, 28th March, from 8:30 pm to 9:30 pm (local time). While the event happens outside school hours, the days and weeks leading up to it offer a good window for conducting lessons and activities that focus on planet-centred topics (many of which can be found amongst Developing Experts units on Science and Geography). 

Why Earth Hour Matters for Schools

Earth Hour goes beyond simply turning off lights. It’s about raising awareness of environmental issues, like climate change and habitat loss. For pupils, it’s a tangible way to see how small actions make a big difference. 

Embedding Earth Hour into your teaching can:

• Support science and geography National Curriculum links (e.g., energy, sustainability and the world’s climate)
• Develop pupil voice and responsibility
• Encourage critical thinking about environmental impact

Classroom Activity Ideas for Earth Hour

1. Investigating Energy Use (KS1 & KS2)

Ask pupils to explore how electricity is used in school and at home. They can:

• Conduct a simple audit of electrical devices in the classroom
• Sort items into those that require electrical energy to work and those that don’t
• Create posters encouraging energy-saving habits

Link this to science topics on electricity and everyday materials.

2. Climate Change Debate (KS2)

Introduce the concept of climate change and its causes. Pupils can:

• Research different viewpoints
• Take part in a structured class debate
• Discuss solutions and individual responsibility

This builds oracy skills and deeper thinking skills; two skills which are emphasised in all of Developing Experts lessons. 

3. Design an Eco-Friendly Home (KS1 & KS2)

Challenge pupils to design a house that uses less energy. They might include:

• Solar panels
• Insulation
• Energy-efficient lighting

This cross-curricular task links science, design and technology and art.

4. Earth Hour Pledge Wall (Whole School)

Create a display where pupils write or draw one action they will take to help the planet. For example:

• Turning off lights when leaving a room
• Walking instead of travelling by car
• Reducing plastic use

Ready-to-Use Teaching Resources

To save you time, here are some ready-made resources you can use or adapt:

• DE’s COP Assembly Content: Explore climate change goals and the importance of net zero through lessons focusing on COP summits. 
• Curriculum-aligned Science and Geography lessons: Several DE units, such as Science units on Living Things and Their habitats and Geography units on Biomes and The Amazon Rainforest, contain ready-made resources for teachers. 
• Knowledge Organisers: DE subscribers can download our ready-made knowledge organisers - these contain key word documents too. 
• Quizzes and Assessments: Conduct quick checks for understanding with DE’s in-built quizzes and unit assessments. 

Also, if you’re using DE’s AI Lesson Builder, you can generate tailored Earth Hour lessons, presentations and quizzes in minutes, all aligned to your chosen year group and objectives.

Making an Impact

Earth Hour is a chance to inspire the next generation to care for the planet. By linking the event to your curriculum and giving pupils practical ways to take action, you can turn awareness into lasting impact.

You can find more resources to help you explore Earth Hour at www.developingexperts.com. Visit now to sign up for a free two-week trial.