Yew Chung International School of Shanghai was the first school in China to sign on to Earth Hour last year when most people were unfamiliar with the event with a Website only in English.

Yew Chung International School of Shanghai was the first school in China to sign on to Earth Hour last year. [Shanghai Daily]

Today the Website is in Chinese and other languages.

Students began to prepare two months ago. They have painted posters, come up with slogans in both English and Chinese and told everyone they know to sign on. And they're telling people they don't know, by putting up posters in residential communities.

Some may charter a bus to spread the word in the city's far-flung suburbs, according to English teacher Daniel D'Andrea who is in charge of the Ecology Action Team. The team undertakes eco-friendly activities after school.

Last year D'Andrea and his wife were dining out at a restaurant. He gave a speech about Earth Hour and the owner agreed to turn off the lights and light candles at every table.

"It was an amazing night with nobody complaining," says D'Andrea. "My students and I remind people of the small things they can do to make a change. No one can save the Earth but as long as everyone does their part, we can make a difference."

How to spend Earth Hour?

One hour of community darkness can be fun and creative. You can join your community and together watch some of the city lights go dark, or host a lights-out party at your own home.

"There are no hard and fast rules surrounding participation in Earth Hour. We only ask that you flick that switch and have fun doing whatever you choose to do during that time," says Andy Ridley, executive director of Earth Hour.

Families with young children may wish to turn their lights off earlier - their "vote" still counts, if they have registered on Earth Hour Website.

Why not ...

? Attend an Earth Hour event or organize your own street party with neighbors.

? Gather family and friends for a picnic in a park and look at the stars.

? Dine by candlelight.

? Organize a treasure hunt in the dark.

? Take the dog for a walk.

? Luxuriate in a bath with candles placed about.

? Share a romantic night with your lover.

? Sit in the dark and share stories.

? Take photos or video of and upload them. Try the Earth Hour Website (www.earthhour.org).