Solar panels. Photo: Roto Frank AG.

Israel joined the world in marking International Earth Day on Sunday with a long list of eco-friendly activities aimed at raising awareness for environmental protection.

One initiative was “Earth Hour,” which was observed in 22 Israeli cities by asking residents, business owners and institutions to turn off all lights for one hour, to signify their conservation efforts. The hour was staggered across the nation, starting in Tel Aviv, Yavne and Yeruham at 8 p.m. and in other cities at 10-minute intervals afterward.

The Israeli government is also implementing “greener” policies, led by the Environmental Protection Ministry. Ministries now use energy-efficient computers, and the government has plans to introduce energy-efficient screens and televisions, which would not only be good for the environment, but would also save the Finance Ministry millions of shekels annually.