There have been some beautiful time lapse videos shared with the world of the lights going off across various landmarks around the globe for Earth Hour 2012. Time lapse photography is a visually captivating way to communicate the collective display of powering down from our usual routine for one hour.

152 countries and territories and more than 6,700 cities, towns and municipalities took part in the biggest Earth Hour event on March 31 at 8:30PM. Whilst there were some incredible stories we’ve reported in the past two weeks that capture the hope and strength of the movement, there’s one telling reason that you’ll be hearing much more from Earth Hour in 2012.

As the largest ever Earth Hour wraps up across Asia, Nelson Mandela has taken to Twitter to show his support for the cause to unite the world to protect the planet.

"Let us stand together to make of our world a sustainable source for our future as humanity on this planet" #NelsonMandela #EarthHour”, the former President of South Africa tweeted.

At the same time, Earth Hour’s I Will If You Will campaign went viral, engaging tens of thousands of people to Dare the World to Save the Planet.

UNESCO joins the United Nations in sending powerful messages for Earth Hour

UNESCO Director-General, Irina Bokova, has delivered a powerful message to participants across the globe, in the lead up to Earth Hour this Saturday March 31, 8.30pm - 9.30pm. Bokova says the Earth Hour campaign is an opportunity to show commitment and also a moment for reflection on the planet.