The environmentally aware NEC Group chose to support the global event highlighting energy use by switching off the lights at the ICC, the International Convention Centre, for an hour.

The Earth Hour, which was organised by the environmental group WWF, saw the award-winning ICC join other well known city centre locations such as the Council House, Town Hall, Selfridges building and Custard Factory, in turning off their lights and signage for an hour from 8.30pm.

More than 2,000 towns and cities across 80 countries took part in the event, which the organisers hope will raise awareness of climate change.

Geoff Fenlon, general manager at the ICC, said: “At the ICC we are extremely conscious of the effect that we have on our environment, and ensure that we are always taking steps towards minimising our impact, so we were more than happy to turn off our lights for Earth Hour.

“Linking with landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Sydney Opera House through one global event like this makes a very powerful statement, and I am pleased that we were able to take part.”

The ICC was recognised earlier this year with an ISO 14001 accreditation, highlighting its dedication to maintaining the highest standards in environmental management.