Bloom and Breathe: Quick Garden Escapes in Southeast Asia

Fighting climate change is one of the most urgent challenges of our time. Rising global temperatures, extreme weather events, and environmental degradation threaten ecosystems, economies, and communities worldwide. But there is hope. By adopting sustainable practices, reducing carbon emissions, and supporting clean energy initiatives, we can help slow climate change and protect the planet for future generations.

One powerful way to take action is by participating in Earth Hour, a global movement where millions switch off their lights for one hour to raise awareness and inspire action for a sustainable future.

What Is Earth Hour and When Did It Start?

Earth Hour is a global environmental movement organized by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) to raise awareness about climate change, sustainability, and energy conservation. It encourages individuals, businesses, and landmarks around the world to switch off non-essential lights for one hour as a symbolic act of commitment to protecting the planet.

The initiative was born in 2007 from a think tank led by Earth Hour co-founder Andy Ridley, resulting in a partnership between WWF-Australia, global creative powerhouse Leo Burnett, and media company Fairfax Media to address climate issues. Leo Burnett, in particular, played a key role in promoting the idea and transforming it into a large-scale campaign. What started as a local effort in a city down under has since evolved into a global movement spanning over 190 countries.

Beyond the symbolic switch-off, Earth Hour has also sparked important conversations and inspired real-world environmental actions advocating for a more sustainable future, including tree-planting campaigns, legislative changes supporting renewable energy, and other conservation efforts.

When and What Time Is Earth Hour This 2025?

In 2024, Earth Hour saw a record-breaking 1.5 million hours given to the planet across 180+ countries. Iconic landmarks, from the Eiffel Tower to the Empire State Building, joined the global switch-off, while prominent figures like UN Secretary-General António Guterres and Kenyan Olympic marathon champion Eliud Kipchoge amplified the movement.

Building on this success, this year's Earth Hour will take place on Saturday, Mar. 22, 2025, from 8:30 PM to 9:30 PM local time. They aim to surpass the previous record and reach two million hours. The event follows a rolling schedule, which means that the switch-off happens at each participating country’s local time, starting from the earliest time zones and moving westward across the globe.

What Earth Hour Activities Can You Attend in Your Country?

Earth Hour is more than just switching off lights; it’s a global movement that brings communities together through meaningful activities that promote sustainability and environmental awareness. From live performances to eco-friendly challenges, there are countless ways to get involved.

In Hong Kong, you can head to Ocean Terminal Deck, Harbour City and join the Earth Hour Carnival. This celebration features engaging workshops, interactive booths, and performances, including a Children’s Gala Performance led by Isaac Ng, eco-themed busking sessions with Mic Chow and Mark Chan, and a stand-up comedy show by Tim Chan. Art enthusiasts can explore ceramic sculptures from St. James’ Creation, while Repair Café HK will offer pop-up repair stations to promote sustainability.

Singapore is also organizing its WWF Earth Hour Festival 2025 at Sensoryscape, Sentosa with a host of day-long celebrations featuring interactive workshops, live entertainment, and sustainability-themed activities. These include a solar light-making workshop, a bubble show, and performances from XiXi, Karyn & Sheng Li, EARL the Band, and Alhambra Bellydance.

For those living in the Philippines, WWF-Philippines encourages everyone to log their environmental actions in the Hour Bank and participate in the Earth Hour Virtual Run, a nationwide event to collectively outdo last year’s 179,734-kilometer distance. Participants can sign up to contribute their steps in a fun and meaningful way, reinforcing the importance of active participation in conservation efforts.

Celebrations vary around the world so it's best to inquire with your country's respective WWF and local organizations.

What Can You Do Aside from Switching Off Lights?

Helping the environment doesn't have to happen only during a specific hour! Beyond turning off the lights during Earth Hour, there are many ways to help save the planet through daily actions. 

Conserving energy, for instance, is a simple yet effective step. Using energy-efficient appliances, switching to renewable energy sources, and unplugging devices when not in use can significantly reduce electricity consumption. Fixing leaks to minimize water waste can likewise contribute to sustainability.

Living more sustainably also means reducing waste, reusing items, and recycling whenever possible. Composting food scraps keeps organic waste out of landfills, while choosing second-hand products and avoiding fast fashion support a circular economy. Supporting brands that prioritize ethical and eco-friendly practices is another way to make a difference.

In addition, transportation choices play a key role in reducing carbon emissions. Walking, biking, carpooling, or using public transportation instead of driving alone can lower a person's carbon footprint. If driving is necessary, opting for a fuel-efficient or electric vehicle can make a positive impact.

More importantly, protecting nature and wildlife is a must. Planting trees, creating green spaces, and avoiding products that contribute to deforestation, such as unsustainable palm oil, help maintain ecosystems. Making mindful choices, like supporting local farmers and using reusable items, are also small actions that add up to meaningful change for the planet.

Asia is no stranger to extreme weather, with powerful typhoons sweeping across the region, especially during typhoon season. Each year, countries in Southeast Asia, East Asia, and parts of South Asia brace themselves for typhoons and storms that cause widespread damage. On average, the region experiences 20 to 30 typhoons annually, with some making landfall and leaving devastation in their wake.

During weather forecasts, we usually hear terms like “monsoon,” “hurricane,” and “tropical depression.” While these are often interchanged in everyday conversations, they refer to different weather phenomena. Understanding the differences between these can help residents understand the nature of each, how best to prepare, and what to expect when each occurs.

Typhoon vs. Hurricane: What’s the Difference

Typhoons and hurricanes are two names for the same storm. While both terms refer to a tropical cyclone weather event, the name you will hear in the news depends on where the storm occurs.

Typhoons form in the Northwest Pacific Ocean, affecting countries like the Philippines, Taiwan, and China. Meanwhile, hurricanes occur in the North Atlantic, the Caribbean, and the Northeast Pacific. Both events are characterized by strong winds, heavy rainfall, and storm surges.

Tropical Depression: The Beginning Stage of a Tropical Cyclone

Characterized by heavy rainfall and lower wind speeds, a tropical depression is the initial stage of a tropical cyclone, which forms when warm ocean water fuels low-pressure areas. Depending on wind speed, tropical depressions can intensify into tropical storms and eventually develop into typhoons or hurricanes.

While less intense, these events can still cause localized flooding, which can affect flood-prone areas in Asia.

Monsoon: A Seasonal Weather Pattern

Unlike typhoons, hurricanes, and tropical depressions, a monsoon is a seasonal wind pattern that brings heavy rains. Monsoons occur due to the temperature difference between land and sea, which shifts wind direction and draws moisture inland, resulting in long periods of rainfall.

In Asia, it’s common to hear about two types of monsoon: The Southwest Monsoon (Wet Season), which brings heavy rains to countries like Thailand and Indonesia, and the Northeast Monsoon (Dry Season), which brings cooler and drier air.

How to Prepare for Typhoons, Hurricanes, and Other Weather Events

Understanding these weather events and being informed about their differences can help you take the necessary precautions. Staying vigilant and following weather alerts can ensure your safety. Take note of the important must-dos below:

For typhoons and hurricanes:

• Monitor weather updates from official sources and follow evacuation orders, if necessary.

• Ensure that emergency kits with food, bottled water, first-aid supplies, and flashlights are ready. You can have an emergency bag that has all the essentials you need to ride out the storm.

• Charge your phone, gadgets, and backup power supplies.

• Secure your home by reinforcing windows, doors, and the roof.

For tropical depressions:

• Though weaker than typhoons, tropical depressions can still bring heavy rains and flooding. Continue to monitor updates from reliable sources.

• Work on preventive measures such as cleaning your drains, gutters, and downspouts to prevent flooding.

For monsoons:

• Stock up on rainy day essential items so you don’t need to leave the house when the weather is bad.

• Similar to how you prepare for storms, ensure your drains and gutters are clean.

• If you live in a flood-prone area, consider flood-proofing your home and having an evacuation plan in place.

Asia’s weather is diverse, with typhoons, monsoons, and tropical depressions shaping the climate across different seasons. Aside from practicing preparedness and taking precautionary measures to protect yourself and your home, be on the lookout for ways you can help others through volunteerism and donating. A strong community response can make all the difference in weathering the storm and rebuilding together.

You’ve tasted the delicacies, explored the busy streets, and seen the iconic landmarks – how else can you get to know a city? If you’re looking to escape the urban jungle, some of Asia’s cities are located near breathtaking hiking trails that will give you another lens for experiencing a destination.

Whether you’re an experienced trekker seeking a challenging ascent or a casual hiker looking forward to a leisurely walk through nature, you’re guaranteed to find a trail that meets your needs in Asia. After all, hiking is more than just a physical activity; it’s an immersive experience that allows you to discover a place’s hidden gems and witness panoramic vistas.

If you’re ready for an adventure, lace up your hiking boots and get ready to scale Asia’s natural wonders below:

Hong Kong: Dragon’s Back Hike

Distance from the city: 30 minutes

A hike that takes 90 minutes to two hours, Dragon’s Back promises breathtaking views of beaches, mansions, distant mountains, and the South China Sea. As it’s one of the popular hikes, the trail can get crowded so best to go early or late in the afternoon. The undulating ridge of the trail resembles a dragon’s back so it’s recommended to wear proper hiking shoes and bring plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Hong Kong: Lantau Peak

Distance from the city: 1 hour

Lantau Peak is Hong Kong’s second-highest mountain, making it a daunting undertaking for beginners. However, even if you’re not an avid hiker, scaling the peak is worth the effort as it will reward you with breathtaking views. It will take you around four to five hours to finish the Lantau Peak hike, and many suggest starting before dawn so you can witness a stunning sunrise from the summit.

Macau: Coloane Trail

Distance from the city: 20 minutes

Spanning eight kilometers, the Coloane Trail is the longest hiking trail in Macau, but it’s suitable for hikers of all skill levels and can be completed in just two to three hours. Those who have experienced the trail say it’s relatively easy to accomplish and there are shaded areas where you can take a break while admiring the view. Don’t forget to bring plenty of water and snap photos when you go on this hike.

Manila: Mount Batulao

Distance from the city: Around 2 hours

When it comes to day trips, Batangas is a popular destination because of the numerous activities you can enjoy in the province. Those who want to hike can climb Mount Batulao, an inactive stratovolcano located in Nasugbu, Batangas, which features a mix of steep and flat sections. As you conquer the trail, make sure you admire the views of rolling hills and landscapes. You may also want to start early to avoid the midday heat.

Manila: Mount Pico de Loro

Distance from the city: Around 2 hours

Considered the highest point in Cavite, Mount Pico de Loro is one of the famous mountains in the Philippines known for its single pillar of stone that stands near the summit. Hikers take around four to six hours to complete the trail as it includes forested paths and rocky climbs. If you wish to scale the pillar, bouldering and rappelling are required, but it will surely be a rewarding experience once you reach the top.

Kuala Lumpur: Bukit Gasing

Distance from the city: 20 minutes

A two- to three-hour hike that’s ideal for beginners? Count us in! Bukit Gasing features well-marked trails and a variety of routes that make it an exciting option for outdoor enthusiasts. Aside from taking in the beauty of the lush surroundings, you can also engage in bird-watching opportunities that make it a pleasant escape from the city.

Bangkok: Khao Sam Lan National Park

Distance from the city: Around 1.5 hours

The best thing about Khao Sam Lan National Park is it offers a variety of hiking trails that can be completed in three to four hours. The park is known for its picture-perfect waterfalls and magical forested areas that make it an ideal choice for a day trip. Make sure you wear durable yet comfortable hiking shoes as some trails can be slippery.

Singapore: Bukit Timah Nature Reserve

Distance from the city: 30 minutes

Home to the highest natural point in Singapore, Bukit Timah Nature Reserve offers a hike that can be completed even by beginners in one to two hours. As you explore the area, you’ll see a variety of flora and fauna, making the hike an even more enriching experience.

Singapore: Mount Faber

Distance from the city: 10 to 15 minutes

Mount Faber is a scenic hill that can be leisurely explored and you will be rewarded with views of vistas, the city skyline, and Harbourfront. Climb to the top of Mount Faber via the Marang Trail, which can be found near Harbourfront Exit D. You can reach the highest peak of Faber Point only after a short 800-metre walk. It’s the perfect choice for a quick getaway without straying too far from the city.

Tokyo: Mount Takao

Distance from the city: 1 hour

Easily accessible by train, Mount Takao offers a quick escape to nature, making it a favorite hiking spot among locals and tourists. There are different trails you can take to reach the summit, and once you reach the top, you can get a view of Mount Fuji on clear days. Looking for a bonus treat? A few weeks after the cherry blossoms in central Tokyo have bloomed, Mount Takao offers another great opportunity to witness these beautiful flowers. The hike can be completed in just two to three hours.

Seoul: Bukhansan National Park

Distance from the city: Around 1 hour

The park offers a range of hiking trails that cater to different fitness levels. It is famous for its granite peaks, historical sites, and scenic valleys, making it popular among hikers. It is best to hike early in the morning and allocate around three to four hours to complete a trail. Don't forget to take photos from the summit as the views are said to be spectacular.