What: To mark Earth Hour, El Corte Inglés will join a global campaign by WWF, engaging employees and customers in a symbolic gesture to highlight the need for climate action and biodiversity protection.

Why it is important: This initiative highlights the growing role of department stores in leading ESG efforts and mobilising collective action for sustainability in the retail sector.

El Corte Inglés is participating in the 20th edition of Earth Hour, joining millions worldwide in a symbolic “lights out” event to raise awareness about climate change and the importance of protecting biodiversity. On March 28, the company will turn off exterior lighting at its stores across Spain and use internal communication channels to inform and involve employees, reinforcing its commitment to environmental stewardship. This action is part of a broader ESG strategy that includes long-term collaboration with WWF and ongoing initiatives to improve energy efficiency, reduce waste, and support conservation. By aligning with global campaigns like Earth Hour and the UN’s Agenda 2030, El Corte Inglés demonstrates how department stores can leverage their visibility and influence to drive collective action, strengthen brand reputation, and engage both employees and customers in sustainability goals. The initiative underscores the sector’s evolving role as a leader in climate action and responsible business practices.

IADS Notes: Recent IADS sources confirm that El Corte Inglés is at the forefront of ESG and climate action in the retail sector, with a strong track record of environmental and social responsibility initiatives (Modaes, March 2026). The company’s participation in Earth Hour, alongside other major European retailers, underscores the sector’s visibility and influence in promoting sustainability and climate awareness (Retail Week, March 2026). WWD (February 2026) highlights how leading department stores are aligning with global frameworks such as the UN’s Agenda 2030 and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, accelerating climate action plans, and partnering with NGOs for biodiversity and conservation projects. Inside Retail (April 2025) documents the growing role of retailers in leveraging their platforms to engage employees and customers in collective action, amplifying the impact of global campaigns like Earth Hour. Fashion Network (January 2026) emphasises the value of long-term partnerships with organisations like WWF in advancing responsible sourcing, biodiversity protection, and environmental stewardship. Collectively, these sources illustrate how department stores are using ESG leadership, strategic alliances, and high-visibility campaigns to drive progress on sustainability and climate goals.

El Corte Inglés joins the “Earth Hour”