#Connect2Earth, One Plate at a Time
April 2018
Earth Hour’s sweeping momentum has paved the way for long-term solutions to the most pressing global environmental issues. In 2017, a record breaking participation of 187 countries and territories united to Shine a Light on Climate Action. This year, WWF has launched Earth Hour’s newest theme, #Connect2Earth, which emphasizes that climate change and biodiversity are two sides of the same coin. And when we talk about climate change and biodiversity loss, inevitably, we need to talk about food production. Today, 7.3 billion people consume 1.7 times what our planet’s natural resources can supply, making food production, distribution, management, and waste threaten wildlife and the Earth itself.
Earth Hour’s commitment to Mother Earth goes beyond the number of lights switched off for 60 minutes as it takes on a greater mandate for biodiversity conservation. Addressing the need for sustainable food systems in the dining industry, The Sustainable Diner project’s partner restaurants have shown their full support for sustainable food consumption and production by participating in this year’s Earth Hour celebration. Aside from turning off non-essential lights and signages in their restaurants for 60 minutes last March 24, 2018, these restaurants have also created a #Connect2Earth sustainable dish to include in their menus as a sign of their commitment to promoting sustainable dining in the country.
Six establishments under The Cravings Group (Cravings, Wicked, The Coffee Beanery, Casa Roces, Epicurious PH, Seven Suites Hotel Observatory) have participated this year, and though Earth Hour is always a special day, the restaurant group takes pride in incorporating the principles of Earth Hour daily in their operations. They turn off their lights for one hour a day to save on electricity costs.
Circa 1900 continues to promote Earth Hour as a way of mitigating the effects of climate change and showing their commitment towards a better planet. They creatively implemented Earth Hour by hosting candlelit dinners for their guests both in Casa Uno and in Cicada Tapas Bar.
Anzani proudly celebrates not just Earth Hour but Earth Month. Their sustainability efforts did not just cover Earth Hour, but also an array of activities promoting wellness, nurture, and agriculture, which includes participation in a farmer’s market as well as a mindful thinking session on reducing carbon footprint from food.
By shifting consumption patterns, lessening food waste, and promoting healthy eating, The Sustainable Diner project hopes to influence Filipino diners to #Connect2Earth every day, one plate of food at a time.
The Sustainable Diner project, under WWF-Philippines’ Sustainable Consumption and Production, is part of the International Climate Initiative (IKI). The Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Building and Nuclear Safety (BMUB) supports this initiative on the basis of a decision adopted by the German Bundestag.
