Earth Hour 2012, March 31, 2012 at 8:30pm.
Conservation and Water Stewardship Minister Gord Mackintosh is challenging all Manitobans to join organizations and communities around the world in playing a part in Earth Hour 2012 this Saturday night.
“Everyone around the globe is invited to turn their lights off for one hour, from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m. on March 31, to show that it is possible to take personal and corporate action on climate change,” said Mackintosh. “The Earth Hour global sustainability movement is an example of a simple but effective action that can be taken to make a difference in the world.”
The Government of Manitoba will be participating in this initiative by turning off non-essential lights in urban and rural government-owned provincial buildings. Emergency lighting and security systems will remain on as usual. All provincial employees have been asked to turn off computer monitors and lights in workspaces before leaving at the end of the week and are invited to participate at home as well.
“Turning lights off for one hour alone won’t resolve the climate change issue but it does demonstrate that individual action can make a difference,” said Mackintosh. “Consider reducing your carbon footprint even more by unplugging unused electrical appliances on an ongoing basis and walking or taking a bus to work.”
Originating in Sydney, Australia in 2007, Earth Hour has gained international attention. Information about the annual event may be found at www.wwf.ca/earthhour where individuals can sign up to participate at home.
