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4,000 cities in more than 120 countries switched off to reduce energy, a gesture to highlight environmental concerns as part of the fourth annual Earth Hour which was organized by the World Wildlife Fund.

At around 8:30 local time, major cities have been plunged into darkness.

The Empire State Building, Eiffel Tower, and Sydney Opera House were among the structures saving electricity in a bid to pledge support to issues concerning global warming.

In Britain, the lights went out at Buckingham Palace and Downing Street.

David Nussbaum, chief executive of WWF-UK, said: “It was a visible demonstration of the enormous level of support there is around the world for a united effort to tackle climate change.

“WWF now asks that world leaders listen to the millions of people who took part and finish the job they started in Copenhagen last year by creating a fair and ambitious global climate deal.”

Praising the event, UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon said: “Earth Hour is both a warning and a beacon of hope.

“By switching off non-essential lights for an hour, people will join a symbolic display that can inspire the change we so urgently need.

“As we watch the lights go out from continent to continent, let us reflect on the fragility and importance of our natural heritage and pledge to protect it for a sustainable future for all.”