Earth Hour began in one city in 2007 and reached over 1.8-billion people in 135 countries across every continent in 2011. This annual initiative, run in partnership with WWF and Leo Burnett, annually invites individuals, businesses, governments and communities to turn out their lights for one hour on a predetermined date. It has been called “the World’s largest campaign for the planet” – and it continues to grow every year as more communities and businesses lend their backing and support. This year individuals across the globe are urged to switch off lights between 20:00 and 21:00 on Saturday, 31 March.

In support of this global initiative and out of respect for the environment which makes the properties in The Red Carnation collection such exquisite destinations, all three hotels – The Oyster Box in Durban, The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa in Cape Town and Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve and Wellness Retreat – will switch off lights in each one of the three hotel dining rooms, from 20:00 to 21:00 on Saturday, 31 March.

During the ‘magical hour’, additional candles in The Grill Room, Azure Restaurant and Makana – will provide a romantic, but also reflective, mood.

“We recognise that global warming is probably the biggest threat facing the futures of people and our environment,” said Red Carnation founder Mrs Bea Tollman. “The success of our properties are largely due to the beauty of their environmental surroundings; we can’t idly stand by without recognising this, without giving thanks and without lending support to an initiative which urges people to be aware of the importance of a healthy environment,” she added. “It is a small, but very important gesture, my hope is for many businesses in the hotel and restaurant industry to join us.”