The Courier-Mail
The phenomenon that is known as Earth Hour has gone from strength to strength since its inception in 2007.
As the world embarks on its fourth Earth Hour, it didn't take long for the number of countries and regions participating to set a new record.
More and more governments, businesses and individuals are signing up to make the pledge to show the world what can be done to fight climate change.
Last year 88 countries got involved with Earth Hour, this year at the time of printing 118 countries have signed up with the final figured expected to rise further.
From 8.30pm tonight, countries around the world that will be joining founding country Australia for the first time in switching off to make a stand include Madagascar, Kosovo, Nepal, Saudi Arabia, Cambodia, Mongolia and Czech Republic.
Earth Hour's executive director and co-founder Andy Ridley said the event demonstrated the determination of the world's citizens for a better healthier world.
"It brings together cities, communities, businesses and individuals on the journey to positive action on climate change," he said.
"Typically we see a big jump in the number of cities and towns taking part in the last few days before the lights go out, but to see such strong support already is fantastic.
"Earth Hour is an opportunity for the global community to speak in one voice on the issue of climate change, while at the same time coming together in celebration of the one thing every single person on the planet has in common - the planet." From two million people in 2007 to more than 50 million in 2008 and a massive one billion last year, participation levels are exceeding all expectations.
In Queensland the event is sponsored by the Queensland Government, Energex and Brisbane City Council.