This year’s Earth Hour observance will revolve around food security, organisers of a local event to mark the global campaign said.

Eugene Dean, chairman of Greenrock, said the decision was made in light of global issues such as the Covid-19 pandemic.

He was speaking at a press conference organised by Greenrock, the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute and the Bermuda National Trust at the

“We saw times when shelves were looking very thin on grocery stores and all of a sudden everybody was very concerned about how long we could sustain ourselves without ships coming in,” he said.

Mr Dean said when one thinks about food security “nature is what sustains that”.

He added: “Food security in Bermuda is far from an abstract concept, it’s a reality that calls for our attention, our interests, investment and support.”

On Saturday Bermuda will join millions around the world in celebrating Earth Hour and Greenrock has invited the community to participate and to mark the event by turning off electrical lights from 8.30pm to 9.30pm on March 28.

Mr Dean, speaking at a press conference at Hamilton Princess & Beach Club, urged residents to connect with the organisations and to support their programmes to help the community to engage and participate in “nature positive action”.

“If food security is a national issue, Earth Hour is a national response,” he said. “Bermuda, let’s protect nature, let’s build resilience and make our future food secure.”

Summer Wood, head of education at the BUEI, said people can take action by reducing their energy use, protecting the ocean, growing their own food or by sharing stories which inspire change.

Ms Wood said in line with this year’s focus on food security, the BUEI encouraged the community to protect the natural systems which sustain the island.

She said: “Protect our oceans, protect our soil, trees and pollinators and our fresh water sources.

“And support local food production and reduce waste so that we can build a more resilient Bermuda.”

Myles Darrell, head of natural heritage at the BNT, said he “strongly” supported the need for food security.

He said: “The Bermuda National Trust has been doing everything it can to ensure the land is protected for just that purpose.

“We’re working with farmers all the time and individuals to support that cause.”

Keisha Webb, public relations and reputation manager at the Hamilton Princess & Beach Club, said the hotel was delighted to support this year’s Earth Hour event.

She said the hotel will hold several indoor activities to mark the event on Saturday, including a dedicated Earth Hour photo booth for patrons.