More than 15 years later, we are now at a tipping point with our climate and nature crises, putting at risk the fate of our one home and all our futures. We are on course to breach by 2030 the 1.5°C global temperature increase limit set by the Paris Climate Agreement, and nature - the source of our very livelihoods and one of our biggest allies against the climate crisis - is also under severe threat, facing alarming and unprecedented rates of loss globally.
The next seven years are crucial to all our futures - we have to stay under the 1.5°C climate threshold to avoid irreversible damage to our planet, and we need to reverse nature loss by 2030, ending the decade with more nature than we started, not less. To make this happen, individuals, communities, businesses, and governments, must all urgently step up their efforts to protect and restore our one shared home.
This year to help raise awareness - as the lights go out on March 22, two Access employees from Auckland - Eric Chiu and Sam Swift – are encouraging colleagues to participate and share their environmental endeavours.
Eric Chiu, a Senior DevOps Engineering, Global Technology Services, has been photographing the night sky for over a decade, his passion lies in revealing the hidden details of space and bringing them to life through his stunning photography.
The Core of the Milky Way – Taken at Kai Iwi Lakes, about two hours north of Auckland, during an AstroCamp that Eric regularly attends. The image showcases the heart of our galaxy, and if you look closely, you might even spot a kiwi bird hidden in the stars!
The Southern Cross & the Eta Carina Nebula – This photo highlights one of the most recognisable constellations in the Southern Hemisphere, with the vibrant colours of the Eta Carina Nebula adding a rare and mesmerising touch. Eric speaks fondly of this image, as the mix of colours and surrounding stars make it particularly special.
The Moon from Auckland – Captured from Eric’s own backyard, this image is all about the intricate details of the moon’s surface. The clarity and depth in this photo make it one of Eric’s personal favourites.
Sam Swift, a Motion Graphics Designer & Videographer is preparing for an incredible experience at the Dark Sky Project in Tekapo, which is situated within the Dark Sky Reserve known for some of the planet’s darkest and clearest night skies.
Sam’s Journey to the Dark Sky Project
While Eric captures the night sky from different vantage points, Sam Swift is preparing for an incredible experience at the Dark Sky Project in Tekapo. This world-renowned observatory is dedicated to preserving and showcasing some of the clearest night skies on the planet.
Located in the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, the Dark Sky Project offers a unique opportunity to view the stars without the interference of light pollution. Visitors can explore cutting-edge astronomy, gaze through powerful telescopes, and learn about the cultural significance of the night sky to New Zealand’s indigenous Māori people.
For Sam, this trip is more than just stargazing—it’s a chance to connect with the universe on a deeper level and experience the night sky in its purest form.
Eric and Sam remind us of the wonders that await when we take a moment to step outside and look up. Whether it's through astrophotography or an unforgettable trip to a dark sky sanctuary, there’s so much to discover beyond our everyday world.
So, on March 22, let’s switch off our lights, embrace the darkness, and take a moment to appreciate and strive to preserve the brilliance of the universe above us.
Earth Hour is more than just turning off the lights—it’s a powerful statement that we care about climate action and sustainability. By taking part, we raise awareness, reduce energy consumption, and inspire lasting environmental change.