It's been almost six months since the grounding of the Rena on Astrolabe Reef in October, and now Tauranga has another environmental challenge to step up to as its been chosen as the lead city for Earth Hour 2012.

Tauranga City Council sustainability advisor Michelle Elborn says Earth Hour is an opportunity for people to consider their role in caring for the planet.

Tauranga City Council sustainability advisor Michelle Elborn is challenging people to make a pledge for Earth Hour.

She says the impact of Rena provided a strong reminder to all how much we value our local environment.

Pledges are being made around the city, with the TCC and Bayfair Shopping Centre teaming up to invite others to pledge an action for the benefit of the environment.

Mayor Stuart Crosby has made a commitment to support the environmental recovery plan for Rena and other have committed to starting a worm farm, install insulation or reduce their car trips.

For every pledge made, Bayfair will fund a dune plant in return to be planted by the community this winter.

There are 1000 plants on offer.

'Collectively, all our pledges will have a great benefit for our environment,” says Michelle.

The Council is also hosting an event on Saturday, March 31, to mark Earth Hour.

A night market will be accompanied by local performances, followed by an Earth Hour ‘lights out' from 8.30pm to 9.30pm at the Old BMX Track at Sulphur Point.

For more information on Earth Hour visit www.tauranga.govt.nz