Canberra leads the way for Earth Hour

Mllions of Australians joined Earth Hour on Saturday March 29, between 8.00pm and 9.00pm by flicking the switch, turning appliances off stand-by and enjoying an hour of quiet darkness.

Residents and businesses across Canberra showed their support for Earth Hour resulting in an impressive 11.4 per cent drop in electricity consumption for the hour, according to ActewAGL.

Canberra also led the nation with an outstanding 73 per cent participating in Earth Hour, according to research company AMR Interactive.

AMR Interactive surveyed close to 3,400 Australians and found 58 per cent participated in Earth Hour by switching off lights, turning off computers, televisions and other household appliances.

“The overwhelming support for Earth Hour from Australians across the country has amazed us and shows the willingness of both business and individuals to start cutting emissions,” said WWF-Australia Earth Hour Director, Andy Ridley.

"It shows Australia is committed to reducing the threats linked to global warming and we have proved by acting together we can start to make a difference. By Earth Hour 2009, on March 28 we expect more Australians will have incorporated simple energy efficient solutions into their homes and workplace. Its important we keep the momentum going for a greener and sustainable future.” Mr Ridley said.

ActewAGL CEO John Mackay said, “The local community should be extremely proud of the 11.4 per cent electricity reduction during Earth Hour. This energy saving represents a reduction of 36 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions – the equivalent of taking 8.4 cars off the road for an entire year.

“To congratulate Canberra, we would like to confirm our pledge to purchase enough green energy to offset the remaining essential electricity used by the city during Earth Hour – the equivalent of taking a further 65 cars off the road for a year.

“I am confident the Earth Hour message will live beyond the event itself, with long-term commitments being made by individuals, businesses and governments to save energy into the future.”

58 per cent of Aussie adults participate in Earth Hour

Sydney, March 30, 2008: Millions of Australian residents joined Earth Hour last night, Saturday March 29 between 8.00 and 9.00pm by flicking the switch, turning appliances off stand-by and enjoying an hour of quiet darkness, according to AMR Interactive.

Research consultants AMR Interactive interviewed thousands of Australian adults living in each capital city to see how Australians celebrated Earth Hour.

The polling showed that 58 per cent of Australian adults in capital cities took part in the lights off campaign that started in Sydney last year and this year went global with more than 370 cities, towns and council areas taking part.

The research showed that respondents participated in Earth Hour in a number of ways including turning off the lights at home (56%), turning off some household appliances (46%), and taking the mobile phone off charger off standby (37%).

"The overwhelming support for Earth Hour from Australians across the country has amazed us and shows the willingness of both business and individuals to start cutting emissions," said WWF-Australia Earth Hour Director, Andy Ridley.

"The polling only targeted people over 18 years of age and, given the popularity of Earth Hour among kids, the actual number of participants is likely to be much higher."

Earth Hour was initiated by WWF-Australia and started in 2007. It is now an international event, with more than 370 cities, towns and councils across the world taking part. Kicking off in Christchurch, New Zealand, Earth Hour rolled through 14 time zones, wrapping up in San Francisco, USA at 3.00pm EDT Australian time, Sunday March 29 2008.

Key achievements of Earth Hour 2008 in Australia

• More than 370 cities, towns and communities took part


• All Australian capital cities participated in Earth Hour


• 94 percent of the top 100 ASX companies supported Earth Hour


• 100% of top property companies support which include: Lend Lease, Mirvac, Colliers, Investa, Multiplex, CBRE, AMP, Knight Sinclair and Westfield.


• Top 5 Australian banks support which include: St George, Westpac, Commonwealth, National Australia Bank and ANZ.

Key achievements of Earth Hour 2008 internationally

• 26 international Earth Hour flagship cities in 10 countries across the globe.


• 370 supporting cities around the world (please see attached list) makes it the largest voluntary power down event in history.


• Support from significant international landmarks which include: Seoul Tower the tallest building in Northeast Asia, Casey Station Antarctica, Niagara Falls, Americas infamous jail Alcatraz, Prince Charles; Gloucestershire residence, Highgrove House.

"By Earth Hour 2009, on March 28 we expect more Australians will have incorporated simple energy efficient solutions into their homes and workplace. Its important we keep the momentum going for a greener and sustainable future." Mr Ridley said.

AMR Interactive report (220kb, pdf)

For more information about Earth Hour:
Kath Eggleston, WWF-Australia Press Office
T: +61 2 8202 1294 / 0408 408 562 E: keggleston@wwf.org.au

About Earth Hour

On March 31 2007, for one hour, Sydney made a powerful statement about the greatest contributor to global warming – coal- fired electricity – by turning off its lights. Over 2.2 million Sydney residents and over 2,100 businesses turned off their lights, leading to a 10.2% energy reduction across the city. What began as one city taking a stand against global warming caught the attention of the world. In 2008, 24 global cities will participate in Earth Hour at 8pm on March 29. Earth Hour is the highlight of a major campaign to encourage businesses, communities and individuals to take the simple steps needed to cut their emissions on an ongoing basis. It is about simple changes that will collectively make a difference – from businesses turning off their lights when their offices are empty, to households turning off appliances rather than leaving them on standby.

About WWF

WWF-Australia is part of the WWF International Network, the world's largest and most experienced independent conservation organisation. It has close to five million supporters and a global network active in more than 100 countries. WWF's mission is to stop the degradation of the planet's natural environment and to build a future in which humans live in harmony with nature. This is achieved by working on the ground with local communities, and in partnership with government and industry, using the best possible science to advocate change and effective conservation policy.

About AMR Interactive

AMR Interactive is a research consultancy that brings innovation, integration and insight to drive business success. AMR Interactive has operated in Australia for more than twenty years, offering a full range of research services to business and government. From advertising effectiveness and brand equity studies through to corporate reputation, customer satisfaction, concept testing and pricing AMR Interactive offers a complete research consultancy service. Our mission is to drive our clients' success with the best people, products & processes.

Leo Burnett Sydney

Award winning agency, Leo Burnett is WWF's partner in the Earth Hour initiative. The agency, in collaboration with WWF, has created the Earth Hour identity and logo and a dedicated holistic communications campaign, designed to harness the power of TV, radio, print and interactive.

Blog from Behind-the-scenes

TRISHNA GURUNG

for Earth Hour 2008 I’ve been from Sydney, Australia to Atlanta, USA.

In the best way possible I’ve been in the thick of things, shuffling images and video of Earth Hour from one corner of the world to another. It’s been a global effort to employ the most amazing technological tools to connect the dots on climate change, the greatest threat that faces the planet.

From what I’ve seen in the past 24 hours as Earth Hour rolled around the world, an event has became a movement that captured the imagination of people. It’s obvious that that Earth Hour has found an audience.

You.

You chose to switch off for 60 minutes and turn on to the reality that this planet of ours is in real danger.

You made the political personal once again. And how! I saw you put up homemade flyers around the neighborhood. I heard you gasp when the city did go darker than you thought possible. There was a sigh when the big lights faded to the shimmer of starlight. You were there sitting in the crowd outside the cathedral in New Zealand. You partied with the celebs Down Under, waded in the shallows as warriors lit the surf with their torches in Fiji , danced with the parade in Bangkok, and dined in old world candlelit splendor in Ireland. You made the individual, Earth Hour and climate change part of the news agenda.

You know what I got out of working backstage?

It’s a big world out there.

Hundreds of cities.

Thousands of us.

One small, fragile planet.

Our responsibility.

Phoenix turns off the lights

Wide-eyed onlookers gaze at the skyline from the Summit rooftop in downtown Phoenix, while one-by-one buildings go dark. Bank of America. US Airways Center. APS building. The Arizona Republic. Hyatt Regency…

The giant dome at Chase Field begins to close, while the announcer tells Arizona Diamondback fans inside that they’re honoring Earth Hour by blocking out the stadium lights.

Among the esteemed guests on the rooftop is Phoenix Mayor Phil Gordon who sits alongside his young son—playing a tune on the battery-powered piano. A call comes through the transom. The Hard Rock Café will not turn out its giant neon guitar unless someone from the mayor’s office contacts them. Mayor Gordon reaches out his hand for the phone—a few words are spoken. Thirty seconds later the guitar is dark.

Twenty floors below, the city is embracing the movement. Local hot spot, Staudamires, is serving up eco-tinis garnished with glow sticks. Residents are roaming the streets in glow-in-the-dark necklaces and “I’m not afraid of the dark” stickers affixed to their chests—and foreheads. A club blasts Nelly Fertado’s “Turn Off the Light” while Saturday night partiers dance in the dark. Stargazers gather at the Arizona Science Center to take advantage of increased visibility and the telescopes it graciously provided.

In the end, every building marquee on the Phoenix skyline went off. The City of Phoenix made the finale of Earth Hour a night to be remembered. The night that governments, businesses, communities and individuals joined together to make a global statement on climate change and the need for each of us to take action.

Inspired by a common goal, connected through common threat—Phoenix and the entire planet united.

On March 29, 2008, the dark helped the world see the light.

Hundreds brave the cold for a dark San Francisco

Greetings to all from San Francisco, where hundreds of Earth Hour revelers braved the chilly summer fog to watch the city go dark in this dramatic event to tackle climate change! Led by Mayor Gavin Newsom, San Franciscans voiced their commitment to combat climate change, not only through Earth Hour, but by continuing to drive awareness of this critical environmental issue and by making conservation a part of their daily lives.

Leading up to the moment when the city went dark, we also heard from Senator Barbara Boxer, who gave voice to Californians' environmental concerns and commitments; WWF's own Suzanne Apple, who works with businesses around the world to protect the environment; and entertainers, such as the campy Beach Blanket Babylon, and Jason Damato, who wrote a song "Lights Out" especially for Earth Hour. Olympic Gold Medalist Brian Boitano mc'd the event and the WWF Panda entertained adults and children alike.

A hush fell over the crowd as the time for Earth Hour approached, and the clock tower on the Ferry Building signaled the moment, not with a chime this time, but by turning off its lights - starting a wave of darkness that fell over the rest of the building and the city. At 8 pm local time, famous landmarks in this City by the Bay turned their lights off. The Bay Bridge and Golden Gate Bridge, Coit Tower and Alcatraz Island, the Embarcadero and Transamerica buildings all went dark for Earth Hour.

The Market Bar, in the Ferry Building, was one of many restaurants hosting candlit dinners. Hotels across San Francisco handed out flyers to alert their patrons and ask them to turn out their lights. And community groups and individuals came together to create their own personal Earth Hour celebrations. There were even nighttime nature hikes!

As the first global Earth Hour event winds to a close, WWF would like to send a huge THANK YOU to all of the incredible individuals, organizations, businesses and governments around the world who made this event possible! Your hard work and dedication, your enthusiasm, and your participation in Earth Hour have sent a powerful message around the planet that, by coming together, we can all make a difference.

Earth Hour Success

Earth Hour was an astronomical success! At 8:50pm the electricity consumption in the city dropped by 264 Megawatts, which is approximately 175,000 households. And much of the city remains dark.

With millions of people around the world sharing this experience, I feel a rising hope for the future. It’s easy to get down when watching endless news stories about melting ice caps and hungry polar bears, but this could be the moment when we start to turn the corner, and begin to make good news happen. Tomorrow the media will be telling a new story, with photos of the dark skyline a testament to the power of co-operation, and the willingness of Canadians to work together to help reduce consumption, thereby reducing emissions.

So carpe diem! We have seized the day, turned out the lights, and turned on to climate-friendly living. It’s an amazing thing to consider that over 150 Canadian municipalities are sharing this experience.

Just imagine what we can accomplish together if we make every hour Earth Hour! Tomorrow, when the lights are back on, many of us will continue to conserve, and living ‘The Good Life’ by using less power, driving less, and feeling great. I hope that includes you, because I know that we can turn the page on the climate crisis together.

It's Earth Hour!

Even a big shaggy dog shook his tail for the count down in Nathan Phillips Square. As soon as the clock struck 8 p.m. the BMO building blinked out over the cheering crowd as Nelly stepped up to the mic to sing “Turn out the lights”. With every passing minute the night gets darker and the audience stands outlined in the fading civil twilight. In addition to some familiar faces from local news stations I’ve spotted local city councillor Janet Davis and MP Olivia Chow enjoying the show.

Officially, Toronto Hydro has reported a load drop of 223MW and dropping. “That is equivalent of approx. 100,500 homes”, says Blair Peberdy, Vice-President of Toronto Hydro, who stands on the square enjoying his hot coffee with a smile.

We’ve all got something to smile about.

Party Time!

Two well known celebrities are here tonight - Mayor David Miller and the WWF Panda. Mayor attracts many cameras but the Panda gets the hugs. In addition to the musicians mentioned in the last entry we are being entertained by fantastic up and comers like Kate Todd, Jenna, Dane, Casey and Sunshine State. People of all ages are here to enjoy the event. No doubt all of us wondering what the skyline will look like. Mike Russill, President and CEO of WWF-Canada, kicks off the event and the sun is almost gone. The sky above us is still blue but the western faces of the skyscrapers are pink with fading light.

If you are in the neighbourhood there is still time to join us. If you are further away you can also join us at home because this is the night for everybody around the world to take part in for a cause that affects us all. As Mayor Miller takes the stage he reminds us, “It isn’t impossible, it is doable if we all work together.”

That’s it for now…

The Sun is Sinking

The sun is sinking behind the skyscrapers, and filling Nathan Phillips Square with late day orange light and excitement! People with red ‘Global Warming Ain’t Cool’ bags circulate, with the crowd growing by the minute.

Nelly Furtado did a soundcheck earlier, to the delight of her screaming fans. “We love you!” a young person yelled. And through my thick winter hat, I’m pretty sure I heard Nelly say, “Thanks, I love you too.” No wonder she has so many admirers, filling the square to see her special Earth Hour acoustic performance. She has a great personality, and we’re thankful that she is giving her time to this great cause.

Not only will Nelly sing about turning out the lights tonight, but The Philosopher Kings and Fefe Dobson will also lend their talents to the free celebration tonight. No doubt the screaming fans will number in the thousands, as we watch the skyscrapers and the landmarks of Hogtown go dark for Earth Hour.

Stay tuned for the big switch off!

Blogging LIVE from Earth Hour in Canada!

The sun is bright and shining in Toronto, and the first of the spring birds are singing. Dusk is still a few hours away, but when the stars are out, the lights will go out too, and the birds will be a little bit safer than usual.

Earth Hour is a call to action on climate change, but the benefits go beyond sending a message. When cities across Canada go dark tonight at 8pm, the world will know that Canadians care, and are ready to take action to reduce our dangerous contribution to greenhouse gas pollution. But the reduced light pollution will also make the migration routes safer for birds trekking home over our urban islands on the boreal. It will also be something special for those of us living in cities- we’ll actually see the night sky filled with stars, rather than orange haze.

I was in Sweden when the August 2003 blackout happened, with three friends from Canada crowded around a television as red graphics covered much of the Eastern seaboard, and the news announcers urgently named our cities. We were all worried that something terrible happened, but when we finally called home we heard only positive tales about our families and neighbors enjoying the dark nights, realizing it is possible to live without power.

Earth Hour is very different: it’s no accident, and it’s no light matter. Over the past several years, consciousness of the climate crisis has risen, and not since the rush to deal with the ozone hole and acid rain has the environment been so prominent in the public mind. So tonight, we seize the moment, and turn out the lights by choice, because we can. And in doing so, we are taking the first step towards solving the climate crisis, again, because we can.

Soon Nathan Phillips Square in Toronto will be filled with people, and the sun will be down for an unforgettable evening. Stay tuned for more, as the posting will continue through the excitement, live from WWF-Canada’s official Earth Hour party at Nathan Phillips Square!

Atlanta went dark

It was the night the lights went in Georgia. As Atlanta gave Earth Hour a big Southern welcome, the city's skyline slowly dimmed, turning previous-shinning beacons into symbols for a greater cause.

Leading up to the hour, Atlanta dignitaries and WWF officials began the evening with an event featuring an eco-friendly "green carpet" and WWF's mascot, Pandy. As guests arrived, the local media captured the excitement as the crowd anxiously waited for the big moment to arrive.

Local NBC affiliate WXIA-TV broadcast live from WWF's official viewing party. The anchors spoke of the significance of the event and introduced the folks who made the event a reality, despite overcoming numerous challenges. After a moving speech by co-chair Mark Pettit, he introduced World Wildlife Fund US President and CEO Carter Roberts who spoke about the genesis of the event and of all the exciting things happening around the world.

One of the most dramatic highlights of the evening was when Mayor Shirley Franklin and World Wildlife Fund US President and CEO Mr. Roberts brought gasps of amazement from more than 300 people gathering on the 21st floor of the Wachovia Builiding in the heart of Midtown Atlanta as the two of them joined together to pull down a giant light switch, symbolically turning off the lights, and turning on a new sense of possibilities for the city. Earth Hour had officially begun.

Throughout the city, landmarks, famous structures and simple gatherings of friends celebrated Earth Hour in their own unique way on a night that made history.

For the next hour, the Atlanta residents gazed at the skyline and watched the city shrouded in darkness continue to breath, as vibrant as ever. Over 400 buildings in Atlanta participated, including the Bank of America Plaza (the tallest building in the Southeast), the World of Coke, CNN Center, and the Georgia State Capitol Building.

As the hour came to a close, Atlanta's skyline slowly re-emerged, revealing a proud city that showed to the world that by coming together for a common cause, it can shine brighter than any light.

Chicago has just made history!

Chicago has just made history! One of the world's most iconic skylines was plunged into darkness as Chicagoans sent a strong message to the world that they are committed to addressing climate change -- the greatest environmental threat the world has ever seen.

One by one the lights flicked off and the third largest city in America faded into the night sky. The Sears Tower, the largest bulding in the US, was barely visible. The John Hancock Center went out. As did the Tribune Tower, Wrigley Building and nearly every other office bilding in the city. Soldier Field, home of the Chicago Bears, went dark, along with the famous marquee at Wrigley Field.

Speaking of marquees, they were shut off throughout Chicaogo's theater district. Elphaba, the witch from the production "Wicked" shut off the lights with a dramatic "spell".

At Chicago's famous Navy Pier, thousands of lights were turned off, including those on the iconic ferris wheel. Michigan Avenue was completely dark as virtually every store along the "Magnificent Mile" joined the movement and switched off.

Nearly 500 golden arches were turned off at McDonald's restaurants throughout the Chicago region. Hotels went dark as well. The Swissotel hosted a candle-lit Earth Hour-themed wedding. The well-known Weathermark Tavern offered a special Earth Hour dinner, complete with a champagne toast at 8 pm.

Chicago was truly transformed in a dramatic yet humbling display of its "will do" spirit. Chicagoans showed that individual acts, taken collectively, can make a tremendous impact. It is in that spirit, that the city is leading the way to a greener, cleaner, more sustainable future.

San Francisco clears up for Earth Hour

Here in San Francisco the rain and drizzle have lifted, cloudy skies have turned sunny…and we’re forecasting a fabulous evening for Earth Hour! With all the work and preparation still to be done, it’s a bit hard to imagine that Earth Hour has already passed for most of the official cities throughout the world.

From Giant Stadium to the ferry boat to Alcatraz prison, the Earth Hour video voiced by Jeremy Piven has been spreading the word. Hotels are asking their guests to go dark and restaurants are holding Earth Hour specials. Everywhere you go, people are excited about being part of this global event. Thousands of CFL light bulbs were handed out all across the city today by volunteers wearing those familiar black Earth Hour t-shirts. And today’s local newscasts and newspapers were filled with stories about the event.

The stage is just not being set up outside the Market Bar near San Francisco’s famous Embarcadero where we will formally usher in Earth Hour with help from our emcee, 1988 Olympic Gold Medalist Brian Boitano, San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom, our own WWF-US Vice President Suzanne Apple and a host of local notables. In just about 10 minutes we’ll begin a round of live newscasts outside the event venue.

The Panda has entered the venue.

We’ve just learned that Atlanta officially went dark and now we’re waiting to hear from Chicago. Joy and excitement…even as our own tension builds!!

Canberra embraces Earth Hour

Canberrans joined global citizens around the world last night in switching off their lights between 8-9pm for Earth Hour.

This tremendous support for the WWF initiative saw the nation’s capital go dark for an hour and unite the environmentally conscious population in thinking about our impact on global warming.

With a strong commitment from the Commonwealth Government and business community, Canberra’s Parliamentary Triangle and CBD buildings plunged into darkness in an unprecedented spectacle for those who ventured up Mount Ainslie to take in the sights.

Parliament House flicked the switch and was joined by other capital icons Old Parliament House, Australian War Memorial, National Library of Australia, High Court of Australia, Questacon, Telstra Tower, National Museum of Australia and the Royal Australian Mint.

Earth Hour was also celebrated throughout Canberra’s CBD with Earth Hour in the City, an event featuring acoustic music and other low-energy entertainment, including an outdoor movie, karaoke by candlelight and a poetry slam. Community spirit was alive and well with Civic’s Garema Place and City Walk awash with culture, colour and candlelight.

Canberra’s hospitality sector also got behind earth hour with numerous restaurants, bars and clubs switching off and serving by candlelight.

You can feel the excitement in the Windy City air.

Chicago is abuzz with talk of Earth Hour. All around the city, massive billboards boast of Chicago’s participation in this historic event. In coffee shops, in office building lobbies and in school hallways, Earth Hour signs rally Chicagoans to join Earth Hour. In hotels throughout the city, tourists and visitors are being greeted by Earth Hour videos and are being asked to participate. People on the street are wearing their Earth Hour t-shirts. Everyone in this great city is counting down to 8 pm.


This afternoon, Dr. Richard Moss, a renowned climate scientist and Vice President of Climate Change for WWF-US, joined top officials from Mayor Daly’s office, ComEd (the local electricity provider in Chicago), and area business leaders at a press conference on the banks of the Chicago River to kick off the final countdown to Earth Hour Chicago. They spoke to an army of reporters. A line of eight cameras captured the event to air during afternoon and evening broadcasts on virtually every television station in the city. Drawn by the commotion, throngs of onlookers vied for views of the podium, trying to catch a glimpse of Chicago history.



Chicagoans have been inundated with Earth Hour coverage. The Chicago Tribune and Sun Times have provided prominent coverage. The former published a moving editorial in which they carried the heartfelt message of a young girl named Whitney who pleaded for the adult generations to turn out the lights and reflect on the impact we are making on the future planet her generation will inherit. Whitney, it turns out, goes to the same local elementary school that Dr. Moss himself attended.



Every TV news outlet in this city, including Hispanic media, has provided generous coverage. Dr. Moss has been on a whirlwind media tour. NBC, FOX, CBS, ABC, PBS, Univision – they’ve all run repeated segments. And Earth Hour pieces have been among the longest segments in their broadcasts – some lasting several minutes. Our Earth Hour video, which is narrated by Chicago’s own Jeremy Piven, has received extensive play during these Earth Hour segments. In radio interviews, hosts are often just as excited about Earth Hour as we are.



Chicago is ready. In just a short while, this city’s skyline will be dramatically altered. The Sears Tower, John Hancock Center, Navy Pier, Wrigley Field, Tribune Tower, and more than 200 other buildings throughout the city will go dark as part of the largest voluntary power down in history. The theater district is on board. Hotels are on board. Businesses are on board. Chicagoans are ready. This is our moment!



The countdown begins…

Earth Hour in the philippines

ON March 29th, from 8:00pm to 9:00pm, the Philippine Capital of Manila and more than 30 cities nationwide joined the world for Earth Hour. The entire stretch of Roxas Boulevard - spanning three cities - was plunged into darkness to symbolize unity in fighting climate change. Thousands flocked to the Cultural Center of the Philippines where Earth Hour Ambassadors held a heartfelt countdown ceremony.

Malls, museums, offices, households, billboards, monuments and streets were plunged into darkness. Even the Presidential Palace of Malacanang switched off.

Dozens of corporations pitched in, led by Philips Lighting Systems. The SM group - the nation's most extensive network of malls - all switched off. The Ayala group, McDonald's, Jollibee, Max's, Red Ribbon, Starbucks, Coca-Cola, HSBC, Intel, Shangri-la and Peninsula Hotels, Smart, Globe, Canon, Dell, Cemex, Colliers and Tetrapak were but a few of who took part.

The switch-off was supported by every major media network - with the Philippine Daily Inquirer, Star, BusinessWorld, ABS-CBN, GMA-7, numerous stations and publications not only providing coverage, but also participating in the nation's biggest and most memorable campaign on climate change. Rarely have the Filipino people been roused to such levels.

Earth Hour in the Philippines is an initiative of WWF-Philippines, the Presidential Task Force on Climate Change (PTFCC), Green Army and Philips. Major support was given by the cities of Pasay, Manila, Paranaque and Makati.

A developing nation of 7107 isles. A people working together to make a difference in the growing fight against global warming.

Hot-lanta buzzing with energy

Hot-lanta is buzzing with energy and it seems like everybody's talking about Earth Hour. Some are even calling it the olympics for the environment. Despite a powerful tornado that ripped through the city two weeks ago, nothing can deter the resolve of the citizens of this great flagship city. As a sign of the will people have to continue their mission of sustainability and raising awareness, the tallest hotel in the western hemisphere, the Westin Peachtree Plaza who, even though nearly half of its windows were blown out by the tornado, it is still turning off its lights tonight.


Signs of Atlanta's commitment to Earth Hour and climate change are everywhere. As you drive around and take in the gorgeous architecture and admire the abundant growth, every where you go the city is spotted with Earth Hour billboards, posters, t-shirts and lapel pins. Next to the HUGE - and I mean HUGE - Earth Hour banner that adorns City Hall are flyers detailing the movement in Chipotle which is supporting the cause by dimming the lights in all 12 of their Atlanta locations. Down the street from Chipotle is the Turner broadcasting campus who is turning out their lights as well as supporting EH on their network, CNN.



Kids of all ages are excited about Earth Hour. Just earlier, while walking past a park, one of the youngsters playing soccer stopped, saw my Earth Hour t-shirt and said "that's cool" because his teacher had been talking about it in school. Last night, while riding on MARTA, Atlanta's mass transit system I saw an Earth Hour digital message while waiting for the train. Those messages are everywhere. They adorn the Fabulous Fox Theatre, the Atlanta Civic Center, Georgia Tech's digital billboard and the massive billboards you see as you drive to and from the airport.



Yesterday was a whirlwind of Earth Hour activity. There was PANDAmonium at the pep-rally held at City Hall. Prizes were handed out, speeches were made and Pandy, WWF's panda mascot, made a special appearance leading a conga line with city employees. The local affiliates were there to cover the action but unfortunately Pandy was having too much fun to comment on the record.



Today, WWF President Carter Roberts arrived to celebrate Earth Hour in the city he spent his youth. After touching down this morning he was soon eating chili dogs at iconic eatery The Varsity - another Earth Hour participant. Later he toured the world's largest aquarium, the Georgia Aquarium, and saw whale sharks and beluga whales -- species we hope to protect by raising awareness and taking action on climate change. Carter has also been active taking to the airwaves with extensive media interviews to further spread the word about Earth Hour. We are encouraged by the warm welcome he received at places like CNN and the local NBC affiliate WXIA - who is doing an hour-long special tonight on the Earth Hour activities in town.



Now, less than a few short hours away from Earth Hour we are experiencing the calm before the storm. We are electric with anticipation for the night the lights go out in Georgia.

Lights Out Dublin

At 8pm, it was lights out down by the River Liffey with all the mood lighting underneath eleven bridges switched off. The Custom House, often considered architecturally the most important building in Dublin which is sited on the river front switched off all the lights at 8pm. Non essential lighting on other iconic buildings such as The Four Courts, Liberty Hall and and the courtyard of Government buildings were switched off.

"I am delighted with the response to the Earth Hour initiative in Ireland, says campaign organizer Cathy Flanagan. A 1.5% reduction in power use is a considerable achievement and serves to illustrate the power of one person in just one hour to make Earth Hour a great success, joining cities and individuals across the globe to call for action on climate change. In a campaign like this there is no such thing as an effort too small, we can all do what we can to help tackle climate change. Just by switching off all non-essential lights we can help make a big difference."

Analysis carried out by EirGrid on Saturday night indicates a reduction of approximately 50 megawatts , from the exported demand during the during the period 6.30pm – 9.30pm last night Saturday 29 March. On the basis of these figures we estimate that in excess of 30,000 homes supported Earth Hour not just in Dublin but across the country

The lasting impact of Earth Hour's success is not just what happened for one hour on Saturday night. It's what we in Ireland do next, every day, to use save energy and water, to minimize waste and maximize recycling. Small steps add up.

Those who supported Earth Hour in Ireland should pat themselves on the shoulder, for making Earth Hour a big hit.

Danish Earth Hour

Denmark cities Copenhagen, Aarhus, Odense and Aalborg are observing Earth Hour right now.

Please check http://www.burningpanda.dk/Menu/Sluk+lyset+Danmark for updates!

Earth Hour in Asia

Reports from the Philippines say Manila's Earth Hour event was a success. The Cultural Center of the Philippines, Manila City Hall, shopping malls, several streets and government buildings of the financial hub of Makati City and the Roxas Boulevard along the Manila Bay switched off for the hour.

In Bangkok, WWF-Thailand said the lights out campaign saved 73.34 megawatts of electricity, which would have produced 45.8 tons of carbon dioxide.

Sydney celebrates Earth Hour

Frequent flashes of far-off lightning lit the clouds as Sydney's skyline went dark at 8 pm. A few drops of rain didn't deter the crowd gathered at Mrs Macquarie's Chair.



Sydney Tower was one of the first to turn off, quickly followed by other buildings in the CBD. A big cheer erupted from the crowd at Mrs Macquarie's Chair when the Harbour Bridge and Opera House finally switched off their lights, leaving Sydney's skyline impressively dark.



At the candlelit official launch ceremony, Sydney's Lord Mayor Clover Moore, Australian Environment Minister Peter Garrett, WWF Youth Ambassador Parrys Raine and WWF CEO Greg Bourne spoke about the importance of Earth Hour in raising awareness of climate change. Australian singer-songwriter Pete Murray also gave an amazing acoustic performance with the city skyline as backdrop.

Brisbane's lights turn off

Thousands of Brisbane residents eagerly participated in the city’s first Earth Hour, with people and businesses turning off their lights between 8 and 9pm on March 29.

A succession of neon lights throughout the usually glittering CBD flicked off, and part or all of many office towers were also cloaked in darkness.

Non-essential lighting on iconic structures was also switched off as the city’s citizens and various organisations expressed their concerns about global warming.

These icons included the Story and Captain Cook bridges, XXXX brewery, Suncorp clock and several government and council structures.

Candlelight could be seen flickering in apartments located near the city centre, and several families throughout the city hosted Earth Hour events at private residences.

About 9000 people and 900 businesses in Queensland officially signed up as Earth Hour supporters prior to the event, but it is estimated many more took part on the night.

More than 100 guests enjoyed a VIP event at Kangaroo Point Cliffs during the hour, and looked on as several lights went down in the CBD. Queensland Energy Minister GEOFF Wilson addressed the event, saying it signified how people were genuinely concerned about the impact of climate change

Organisers of the event in Brisbane and Queensland are happy with the response, but hope the initiative becomes bigger in years to come.

They see the inaugural Earth Hour as a “beginning” and hope people take the ideas and symbolism behind the event into their everyday lives

There is a genuine hope Queenslanders work hard to protect our beautiful environment and make simple – but important - changes in their lives.

Hopefully, Earth Hour will encourage people to be more conscious about the use of energy on a daily basis.

Earth Hour Fiji style

At 8pm local time, lights went off not only in the capital Suva, but in cities and towns all over the country - as Kesaia Tabunakawai, WWF South Pacific Programme Representative said, “looking at the map of Fiji, the whole country seems to be supporting Earth Hour. Commitments for ‘lights off’ came from Taveuni, Savusavu, Labasa, Levuka, Nausori, Suva, Sigatoka, Denarau, Lautoka, Lami, Kadavu and Nadi to name just a few.”

In Suva, there was great excitement as the major businesses in the city centre - including Westpac, McDonalds, KFC, Village 6 Cinema and others - switched their lights off one by one. Most dramatically, the largest billboard in the city above the ANZ building was switched off, as were ANZ's signs, other lights and even their ATMs.

Shortly after the city was plunged into darkness, two Fijian warriors in traditional dress carried a flaming torch from prominent restaurant JJ's on the Park to the wharf where they were met by members of the Takia Outrigger Canoe Paddling Club, also in traditional outfits. The warriors passed the flame to the paddlers, who then paddled out into Suva Harbour to release over a hundred floating candles, representing the hundreds of islands of Fiji that are facing the destructive impacts of climate change. The crowd cheered as the candles were released and the paddlers raised their paddles aloft. (Don't worry, all the candles were collected afterwards!)

Other events of the night included a candlelit dinner at JJ's on the Park, a Rotaract Earth Hour party, family dinners and prayer sessions by candlelight or tradional Indian lanterns, and traditional Fijian kava sessions by candlelight.

Fiji is a small Pacific nation consisting of over 300 islands. Fiji’s contribution to the main cause of climate change, carbon emissions, is very small, but Fiji and other Pacific countries are facing more impacts from climate change than larger nations. The hundreds of businesses and individuals from all over Fiji that switched off showed the world that Fiji is ready and willing to take action on climate change.

Christchurch looks back on Earth Hour

As 8pm approached in Christchurch the sun was going down and Cathedral Square was gradually filling with a myriad of different people. Some looked with curiosity at the numerous sustainability displays – others enthusiastically chattered and pointed, while more began settle into camping chairs in front of the large movie screen, making an outing of the evening. A group of kids shrieked with laughter as the bounced around an enormous blow-up earth. Though a diverse crowd, there was a strong sense of community and deliberacy, with everyone gathered in response to the overall message: we can, and should make a difference – and a little goes a long way!

As the hour came, the crowd joined together in a countdown reminiscent of a New Years Celebration – ending, instead of a burst of fireworks, with the slow chime of the Cathedral Bells. Then lights lowered around the square, and the crowds turned their attention to the screen as it sprang to life.

In the surrounding blocks many restaurants and bars were also noticeably dimmer. The occasion brought extra people out on the town, to enjoy a variety of novelty dinning, drinking and dancing experiences. At the Dux de Lux, candlelit tables created a funky atmosphere, heightened by the acoustic sounds of local singer Lauren Mitchell. The enjoyment was apparent, but so was the obvious effort taken by so many businesses to seriously consider energy reduction.

An hour later the absorbed crowds in Cathedral Square were still fixed in front of the screen, watching ‘The 11th Hour.’ It wasn’t long before the good news came through – thanks to the combined commitment of businesses and household alike, Christchurch had made a 13.1% energy reduction!

Sydneysiders gather to watch the lights turn off

Anticipation could be used to describe the mood here in Sydney. In a few moments we will see Sydney turn off its lights. There are many boats gathered in the harbour and countless numbers of families picnicing on the harbour side ready to become part of Earth Hour 2008.

Fiji turns off its lights!

Earth Hour Fiji is a success! Lights went out across the nation.

The response has been amazing, with an enourmous amount of media coverage.

Fiji is currently powered by people power!

Christchurch celebrates Earth Hour!

People across Christchurch switched-off in a big way for Earth Hour tonight! Hundreds of New Zealanders gathered in Cathedral Square as Mayor Bob Parker switched off the lights of the Cathedral at 8pm, and the city powered-down for Earth Hour.

Meanwhile thousands more across the city switched off their lights enjoying candle-lit celebrations at home, and at the many bars and restaurants that took part in Earth Hour.
Power company Orion confirmed Christchurch saved 13.1% electricity during Earth Hour – an astounding achievement which Chris Howe, Executive Director of WWF-New Zealand said was proof of the difference individuals can make when they act together:
"Christchurch has really set a high standard for the rest of the world to live up to as Earth Hour rolls out around the world tonight. New Zealand can be inspired by what Christchurch has done tonight, it proves that if we act together, small actions really do make a difference, and that’s what Earth Hour is all about. It’s an awesome achievement and we want to say thank you to everyone in Christchurch and across New Zealand who took part in Earth Hour – it’s an amazing commitment to the fight against climate change."

Andrew Holden, Editor of The Press, media partner of Earth Hour said: "The point of Earth Hour was to raise awareness about climate change and give the community the chance to get involved in the solution. Saving 13.1 per cent electricity is a remarkable demonstration that proves people of Christchurch want to ensure they have a sustainable lifestyle for a great city."
The atmosphere in Cathedral Square was buzzing with positivity, and a sense of pride in Christchurch being the first city in New Zealand to commit to Earth Hour was highlighted by Mayor Bob Parker.

Families brought their children down to the event, some as young as four, to see the lights go down, with one commenting:
"The kids were really excited about staying up to come here. It was a good way to get them to see the film (The 11th Hour)…. It’s a way of getting people along to increase awareness… the boys have been hearing lots about it at school."

"The atmosphere there was fabulous," said Earth Hour youth ambassador, Susan Smirk who was in the Cathedral Square at the lights went down. "People were really enjoying it. It felt very much like a community event, there were a whole load of different people, and they all came prepared to hear the message, sat on the floor or on camping chairs. There’s definitely that sense of people wanting to hear how they can make a difference which is brilliant."

People across New Zealand took part in Earth Hour, with Wellington and Auckland both dimming lights on landmarks. The lights of Auckland’s Sky Tower were switched off for Earth Hour, and city council buildings switched off for Earth Hour too.

Pete Murray signs up and sings for Earth Hour

Taking to the stage to help fight climate change

28 March 2008: After spending a couple of years out of the limelight, Pete Murray is set to burst back onto the stage, but in the dark….

The singer/songwriter is the latest artist to support Earth Hour, the climate change initiative which has been taken up by more than 370 towns, cities and councils around the world.

Pete, who has just returned from recording his latest album at his home in the hinterland of Byron Bay, is passionate about the environment and as a result was extremely keen to be involved in the WWF-Australia inspired climate change initiative, Earth Hour.

"The message and the goals of Earth Hour are pretty simple, action, no matter how seemingly small, collectively, can make a difference. Turn off your lights for one hour on March 29 and see what a difference this will make for the planet. Other things you can do in every day life such as using energy efficient light bulbs will really go a long way to turning around the effects of global warming," Pete Murray said.

To support the initiative, Pete Murray will be performing an acoustic set for Earth Hour supporters in Sydney at a private event on the night at the very moment the lights of the CBD go out. The performance will be filmed and available for viewing by the rest of the world via Fairfax website www.smh.com.au from Sunday.

Earth Hour Executive Director, Andy Ridley, said: "It's great to have Pete supporting this event because he has the ears of millions of people and can get this message out there. As Pete says, it's the aggregate of everyone's actions that will start turning this climate change problem around. Pete is a true ambassador for this cause as he genuinely believes in becoming part of the solution".

For more information on Earth Hour, or to pledge your support go to www.earthhour.org . For more information about Pete Murray, go to: www.petemurray.com

Final list of cities put Earth Hour 2008 on global stage

WWF-Australia is today announcing a final list of more than 370 local and international cities, councils and towns participating in Earth Hour 2008, firmly planting this year's largest climate change event on the global stage.

With cities in more than 35 countries taking part, WWF expects tens of millions of people across the world will add their voices to millions of Australians this Saturday 29 March, by switching off their lights for one hour at 8:00pm respectively, to make a stand in the fight against climate change.

"Earth Hour is about everyone and every organisation, from individuals to global companies, joining together to own a shared problem – climate change," said Andy Ridley, Earth Hour's Executive Director.

"Governments and businesses are joining individuals, religious groups, schools and communities in this terrific movement that's all about making a change for the better. It's staggering to see so much support from across the globe in just our second year and we're hoping that this will continue to grow year after year," he added.

In addition to the 26 official partner cities, some of the additional supporting cities include:

• Aegina, Greece
• Birmingham, United Kingdom
• Buenos Aires, Argentina
• Burlington, Canada
• Calgary, Canada
• Chandigarh, India
• Chisinau, Moldova
• Curitiba, Brazil
• Denver, United States
• Edmonton, Canada
• Galway, Ireland
• Geneva, Switzerland
• Gold Coast, Australia
• Halifax, Canada
• Honolulu, United States
• Jakarta, Indonesia
• Kuwait City, Kuwait
• Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
• Lautoka City, Fiji
• London, United Kingdom
• Mexico City, Mexico
• Miami, United States
• Minneapolis, United States
• Montevideo, Uruguay
• Newcastle, Australia
• Northampton, United Kingdom
• Pasay City, Philippines
• Pecs, Hungary
• Santa Cruz, Bolivia
• Stratford, Canada
• Warsaw, Poland
• Wellington, New Zealand

Official cities include:

1. Aalborg, Denmark
2. Aarhus, Denmark
3. Adelaide, Australia
4. Atlanta, United States
5. Bangkok, Thailand
6. Brisbane, Australia
7. Canberra, Australia
8. Chicago, United States
9. Christchurch, New Zealand
10. Copenhagen, Denmark
11. Darwin, Australia
12. Dublin, Ireland
13. Manila, Philippines
14. Melbourne, Australia
15. Montreal , Canada
16. Odense, Denmark
17. Ottawa, Canada
18. Perth, Australia
19. Phoenix , United States
20. San Francisco, United States
21. Suva, Fiji
22. Sydney, Australia
23. Tasmania, Australia
24. Tel Aviv, Israel
25. Toronto, Canada
26. Vancouver, Canada

Official cities are registered as WWF flagship cities and have local government support to participate. Partnering cities are those that have organised participation via community channels and grassroot activity.

Earth Hour started in Sydney a year ago with support from local media, politicians, businesses and around 2.2 million Sydneysiders.

For more information on Earth Hour, and a complete list of cities, please visit www.earthhour.org/supporting-cities.

Earth Hour Ireland extends thanks to supporters for 2008 initiative

Speaking in advance of Earth Hour, the Campaign Director for Earth Hour Ireland Cathy Flanagan said

“I am delighted with the response to this global initiative in Ireland, and in particular we welcome the support from Dublin City Council and the Lord Mayor Cllr Paddy Bourke.

Iconic buildings in the city centre which will switch off at 8pm include the Four Courts, the Customs House, mood lighting underneath 11 of the bridges that cross theRiver Liffey. The Office of Public Works has agreed to switch off lights at the Customs House, the Four Courts, facade lighting at Áras an Uachtaráin (President’s residence), and the courtyard in Government buildings. All these actions will be complimented by similar activities in cities such as Sydney, Atlanta, Manila, Copenhagen and Phoenix. In a campaign like this there is no such thing as an effort too small, we can all do what we can to help tackle climate change. Just by switching off all non-essential lights we can help make a big difference.”

"We would also like to extend our thanks to pupils in schools who have played their part. Pupils in schools such as Saint Ailbe's school in Tipperary Town where the fourth year class ran a campaign to raise awareness of Earth Hour in the week leading up to the Easter holidays. Posters were posted all throughout the school with letters sent home to parents and earth hour stickers given out to all pupils. "

"Earth Hour Ireland would also like to thank organisations such as the National Youth Council of Ireland, SIPTU and Dublin Docklands to name a few, all of whom have sought to raise awareness of our campaign through their networks.
Furthermore two Irish hotels deserve a particular mention, namely the Four Seasons in Dublin and Muckross Park Hotel, both setting an example to all hoteliers in Ireland.

If you are planning to be in Dublin city centre for Earth Hour why not capture the switch off and send your photos to earthhourireland@gmail.com

You can keep up to date with further news about Earth Hour 2008 on our website www.earthhour.org/cities/dublin

Once again many thanks for your support

More Irish businesses sign up to support Earth Hour Ireland

More Irish Businesses sign up to support Earth Hour Ireland

Dell Ireland has lent its support to Earth Hour Ireland by committing to switch off. With a the total number of light fittings amounting to 1560; they estimate that their total power usage per hour is 120kW and that by switching off there will be an approx saving of 75kg of Co2 emissions per hour. Commenting on Dell’s involvement with Earth Hour, Ciara Lynch, Head of Corporate Communications, Dell said: ‘Dell has a well documented commitment to the environment both globally and in Ireland. For this reason Dell is delighted to be getting involved with Earth Hour. Recently in Dell a group of employees have come together to create the ‘Dell Green Team’. They are going to be looking into how we as an office can become a more energy efficient.’

Meanwhile in Killarney's majestic National Park, Muckross Park Hotel is setting an example to all hoteliers in Ireland. All the lights in the bar and restaurant will be switched off and church lights will be used instead; furthermore hotel guests will be given candles to use in their rooms for the duration of Earth Hour Ireland

Earth Hour Goes Nationwide in the Philippines

The entire Philippine nation joins the rest of the world for Earth Hour. Even the Malacanang Palace will shut down its lights for one hour.

Partner Cities:

Pasay
Manila
Paranaque
Makati




Partial list of supporting cities:

Quezon City
General Trias, Cavite
Bais City, Negros Oriental
Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental
Dipolog City, Zamboanga
Zamboanga City
Iligan City
Talisay, Negros Occidental
Escalante, Negros Occidental
Baguio
Mandaluyong
Marikina
Iloilo
Puerto Princesa
Tarlac
Laoag City
San Fernando City and Bauang, La Union
San Fernand City, Pampanga
Santiago City, Isabela
San Jose, Nueva Ecija
Naga City, Camarines Sur
Legazpi City, Albay
Iriga City, Camarines Sur
Calbayog
Ormoc
Tangub

Partial list of participating businesses and establishments:

Ascott Hotel
Ayala Land
Canon
Cemex
Chowking
Coke
Colliers
Cultural Center of the Philippines
DeliFrance
Edsa Shangrila Hotel
Globe Telecoms
Greenwhich
Heritage Hotel Manila
HSBC
Intel
Jollibee
Manila Peninsula
Max's
PDI
Philips
Red Ribbon
Shangrila Hotel Makati
SM Super Malls
SM Department Stores
SM Supermarket
Smart Communications
Tetrapak

SM Mall Of Asia Shows Full Support for Earth Hour

SM Mall of Asia, with its 400,000sqm area on a 19 hectare property is the world's third largest mall in the world. It boasts of a panoramic view of the Manila Bay, an IMAX theater, an Olympic size ice skating rink, over 600 local and international shops as well as over 150 indoor and al fresco dining outlets.


On March 29, 2008 at 8:00pm SM Mall Asia leads all the other SM Supermalls nationwide as it turns off its lights in full support for Earth Hour.

Makati Joins Earth Hour

Join the celebration at Ayala Tower One!

A significant number of business establishments have pledged their participation in the observance of Makati Earth Hour on March 29, in which lights will simultaneously be turned off in various parts of the city from 8pm to 9pm.

Department of Environmental Services (DES) chief Danilo Villas said Adel Licos, Manager of the Ayala Social Initiatives Center for Social Development of the Ayala Foundation Inc., has confirmed that Ayala Land, Inc., Ayala Malls, Makati Commercial Estate Association (MACEA), Ayala Center Association, and Ayala Foundation will participate in the city’s observance of Earth Hour this Saturday, simultaneous with 24 other cities worldwide.

According to Licos, the Ayala Malls group will turn off 50 per cent of common area lights in Greenbelt and Paseo de Magallanes in Makati, as well as its properties in adjacent localities, including Market! Market!, Bonifacio High Street, Serendra, Alabang Town Center, Metropoint and Pavilion Mall at 8pm.

Likewise, commercial buildings including Tower 1, Makati Stock Exchange, Ayala 6750, Ayala Life-FGU Center, and BPI, parking areas including Dela Rosa 1, 2 and 3, and residential buildings will reduce by 75 per cent their total light illuminations in areas like corridors and common areas.

Also in the ‘lights off’ list are Ayala Triangle, monuments, pedestrian lights, and double-arm street lights along Ayala Avenue, Makati Avenue, and Paseo de Roxas. Meanwhile, 50 per cent of Salcedo and Legaspi Villages park globe lights, or 405 bulbs, will be shut off. Licos said they have sent out invitations to other business establishments located in the Makat central business district to take part in the community-wide undertaking, and are actively campaigning among employees of the Ayala Group.

“On behalf of the city government of Makati, I would like to extend our sincerest thanks to the Ayala Group of Companies for their support and cooperation in this noble undertaking. They have been our staunch partner for years in protecting and preserving our environment. Likewise, I call on other business organizations and establishments to also take part in this global campaign,” Villas said.

Meanwhile, the city government will hold the Makati City Earth Hour Program at Tower 1, Ayala Avenue at 7pm. WWF-Philippines, the city’s partner organization in the event, will present the rationale behind the Earth Hour. They will also show a video presentation regarding the project.

Mayor Jejomar C. Binay will lead other officials and guests in the one-minute countdown to Earth Hour from 7:59 to 8:00pm. He will also do the ceremonial turning off of lights in the area at exactly 8pm.

Starting 8 pm Saturday, the city government will turn off the lights in 741 lamp posts on Kalayaan Avenue, South Avenue, Makati Avenue, J.P. Rizal, Buendia, and F. Zobel St. The lights at the Makati City Hall will also be turned off, along with those in the city’s 33 barangay halls. All barangay chiefs have pledged to encourage residents to switch off all or some of their household lights during Earth Hour.

Binay has directed the Makati Police, the Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the barangay Bantay Bayan to maintain high visibility during the one hour lights-off period, which will be duplicated in key cities in Europe, Asia and the Americas.

In the city’s central business district, underpasses will also close at 8 pm, two hours earlier than its regular closing time of 10 pm, and pedestrians will be asked to use road crossings.

To signal the start of the one-hour activity, fire trucks from the Makati Fire Department will turn on their sirens a minute before 8 pm. Jeepney drivers will also blow their horns as a signal for residents and participating establishments to turn off their lights. At 9 pm, the sirens and horns will again be sounded to signal the end of Earth Hour.

Canberra CBD Limited proudly presents Earth Hour in the City

This Saturday, the night of Earth Hour, Canberra CBD Limited will proudly present Earth Hour in the City – an evening of free, low-energy entertainment to encourage families to switch off their lights, take their appliances off standby and venture into Civic for two hours of fun in Garema Place and at various locations down City Walk.

Initiated globally by WWF-Australia, Earth Hour is a major campaign to encourage businesses, communities and individuals to switch off their lights for one hour at 8pm on 29 March to demonstrate that simple changes made on a collective basis will make a big difference.

“Earth Hour is just a reminder of the things that we need to do on an ongoing basis,” said Canberra CBD Limited CEO Linda Staite. “It’s easy enough to say turn your lights off for that one hour in the year, but promoting a continued commitment to saving energy is what’s really important.

“Canberra CBD Limited is excited about presenting Earth Hour in the City. It’s the perfect opportunity for families to enjoy the last of the balmy autumn nights in great community spirit.”

Featuring local artists the Big Score, Marianne and Jonathan Mettes, Jason Recliner, John Lollback and Schmick As Jugglers, Earth Hour in the City will have something for everyone including:
 karaoke by candlelight
 roving jugglers
 an outdoor movie – The Day After Tomorrow
 acoustic music
 giant chess
 a poetry slam.

“And, of course, we are encouraging people to walk, ride, jump on a bus or car-pool into Civic to reduce carbon emissions even further,” said Ms Staite.

Earth Hour in the City runs from 7pm to 9pm on Saturday 29 March 2008 in Garema Place and at various locations down City Walk, Civic.

Earth Hour events in Christchurch

Switching off your lights and powering down for Earth Hour at 8pm this Saturday, 29 March, is just the beginning. You can join people celebrating their commitment to fighting climate change at Earth Hour events happening across the garden city.

· Cathedral Square – mingle with the crowds and experience Earth Hour excitement in the square from 7pm. At 8pm, watch the Cathedral’s lights go out for Earth Hour as Mayor Bob Parker counts down to flick the switch and mark the start of Earth Hour Christchurch. Lights around the square will be dimmed and there will be a free screening of film The 11th Hour.

· Free acoustic concert at the Dux de Lux – a free candle-lit acoustic concert at the Dux de Lux with (unplugged) music from local talent Lauren Mitchell. http://www.thedux.co.nz/

· Earth Hour candle-lit bars – head down to the Sol District to join Earth Hour celebrations, bars in the district including Toast and Cartel will be turning off the lights for Earth Hour.

Bars across the city will also be powering down with candle-lit celebrations including: Redjacks, Bailies Irish Bar and Restaurant, Excelsior Sports Bar, The Tap Room, Liquidity, Viaduct/Di Luso, Coyotes, Boulevard, The Tap Room, Liquidity, Ferment and many more.

· Earth Hour restaurants – restaurants across Christchurch holding candle-lit Earth Hour celebrations include: High to Hereford, International Food Hall, Asian & European Cuisine, The Raj Mahal Indian Restaurant, The Curator’s House and Restaurant, Spagalimi’s, Café Metro, The Lotus Heart, le Café and Annie’s Wine Bar and Restaurant in the Arts Centre, Le Plonk wine bar, Tulsi Contemporary Indian Cuisine, Strawberry Fare Restaurant, Café Valentino, The Cabbage Tree, Cook n’ with Gas, Denny’s, The Flying Burrito Brothers, Watershed Restaurant and Bar – and many more!

o Cornershop Bistro in Sumner, the Millennium Hotel and the Heritage Hotel, Cathedral Square are both going one step further with Earth Hour – as well as turning off the lights for candle-lit dining, chefs have come up with special Earth Hour menus that are environmentally-friendly - organic, locally sourced produce, with carbon-neutral wine.

For more information, http://www.cornershopbistro.co.nz/ and www.heritagehotels.co.nz/christchurch and http://www.millenniumhotels.co.nz/

o Two Fat Indians – Not only will people be able to dine by candle-light during Earth Hour this Saturday, you will be given a free candle with your Indian takeaway – and Earth Hour will see Two Fat Indians 'going green' from March 29 - no more plastic bags and using recyclable takeaway containers.

Earth Hour events across New Zealand

Celebrations for Earth Hour are happening across New Zealand!

· Langham Hotel, Auckland – the Langham Hotel is holding a free public event, extinguishing up to an estimated 3000 lights which will be replaced by thousands of natural, non-carcinogenic, paraffin (petroleum) and chemical free, non-toxic, bio-degradable, New Zealand made soy candles. The hotel will also be serving complimentary carbon-zero wine, and canapes from sustainable locally grown ingredients and tap water, to live jazz music.

· Auckland's Sky Tower switches off for Earth Hour – Auckland’s sky tower will be plunged into darkness at 8pm on Saturday in support of Earth Hour.

· Wellington City Council turns out the lights – Wellington’s Mayor Kerry Prendergast has backed Earth Hour will Wellington City Council turning out their lights for Earth Hour this Saturday. This is set to include the external lighting at swimming pools, libraries, recreation centres and other Council-owned buildings and the lights in the trees in Oriental Bay and Civic Square.

ENDS

About Earth Hour Christchurch
Earth Hour is a community event, led by WWF-New Zealand and The Press, and supported by Christchurch City Council, Environment Canterbury and Orion Energy, amongst others. It has the backing of ChristChurch Cathedral and the Employers Chamber of Commerce. All people and businesses can take part in Earth Hour by switching off their lights for one hour at 8pm on 29 March 2008. During Earth Hour people and businesses are also invited to turn off appliances from standby.

About WWF
WWF is the world's largest and most experienced independent conservation organization. It has close to five million supporters and a global network active in more than 100 countries. WWF’s mission is to stop the degradation of the planet's natural environment and to build a future in which humans live in harmony with nature.

What’s Your Next Step?
Earth Hour is just the beginning. You can find out how to live Earth Hour everyday at http://www.earthhour.org/ or by taking the What's your next step? sustainability challenge at http://www.sustainability.govt.nz/. The campaign challenges New Zealanders to take action to live more sustainably – from small easy steps that can begin today, to those that may take more time and investment.

Media information: Jenny Riches, WWF communications manager, 027 4477158

Four Seasons Hotel Dublin goes Dark for Earth Hour

Four Seasons Hotel Dublin are turning off the lights in Seasons Restaurant on Saturday 29^th March at 8pm to support Earth Hour.

Four Seasons Hotel Dublin will join select sister properties in creating a chain of candlelight dinners circumventing the globe. Besides Four Seasons Hotel Dublin, several other Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts are inviting local patrons and guests to dine by candlelight as an enjoyable and delicious way to observe Earth Hour together.

Earth Hour is a global initiative, that asks people around the world to switch of their lights for an hour in a bid to highlight the need for action in the race against global warming.

Aline FitzGerald, Director of Marketing at the hotel commented - 'Four Seasons Hotel Dublin is delighted to take the lead by being the first hotel chain in Ireland to officially support Earth Hour. We believe it is a fantastic initiative that will raise awareness of the threat of global warming.’

Four Seasons Hotel Dublin has pledged to turn off its lights in the dining room for the entire evening and ask quests to dine in candlelight, joining thousands of other individuals and business around the world in highlighting the threat our planet faces from global warming.

With superior service and heavenly scents emanating from the kitchen, dining at Seasons Restaurant is always delightful. With the glow of candles illuminating the room and stretching from sea to sea, it promises to be enchanting.

Christchurch students spread the Earth Hour message

Around 40 students from Christchurch Girls School took the Earth Hour message to the streets of the city today, as they marched from their school through Hagley Park to the Cathedral Square. Armed with Earth Hour posters and banners they'd made, the students wanted to spread the message about climate change and get people in Christchurch to take part in Earth Hour.

Blair Hagman, geography and social studies teacher at Christchurch Girls School, said the idea came when the environment group at the school were discussing ways to make a positive difference and influence people in their city to take action on climate change. "They wanted to come up with new ways of getting more public awareness about climate change and Earth Hour," said Mr Hagman. "The idea of a march came out of that and the students really got behind the idea."

It's free to take part in Earth Hour, which is happening this Saturday at 8pm, and the message from the students at Christchurch Girls School is simple - switch off your ligths for Earth Hour!

Photograph © The Press

Events taking place and icons switching off for Earth Hour

Get involved in Earth Hour!

There is something for everyone to do during Earth Hour, especially for those who are willing to be creative. The idea is to find interesting and practical ways to celebrate the hour on March 29.

Whether you’re a budding astronomer or true romantic, up for a night of community celebration, or keen for a night out on the town to watch the lights go dim - Earth Hour provides a great many opportunities for everyone to get involved.

If you’re looking for something interesting to do on the night, consider the tips outlining 'Ten Things To Do During Earth Hour' (also found on the ‘news’ page of the Earth Hour website) or get inspired and take heed from other communities around the world who have accepted the Earth Hour challenge (events listed below).

We have only listed the events we know of. If your city is planning a big event, please let us know via earthhour@wwf.org.au.

AUSTRALIA

NSW

ICONS GOING DARK: Harbour Bridge, Opera House, Centre Point Tower, Kings Cross Coca-Cola sign, NSW Parliament, Town Hall, Kirribilli House and Luna Park. CBD buildings facing Circular Quay and Blues Point Tower.

EVENTS:
Sydney:

• RSVP.com.au is hosting the SkyTower Singles Dinner. Members can register for a 5 course degustation dinner by candlelight to celebrate Earth Hour while enjoying spectacular views and meeting other singles.
• The Make Poverty History Sydney Volunteer Group is running an Earth Hour challenge for its members, culminating in a picnic in Circular Quay to watch Sydney city go dark.
• A torch-lit beach party on Avalon Beach will feature Fire Trybe Nation fire twirling, live music by Mista Lyon, Tully Dingle and The Shady Band, with all entertainment delivered via solar-powered amps. Residents are encouraged to bring beeswax candle and a picnic dinner. Party begins at 7.30pm, with preceding Eco-Living Expo from 3pm-6pm at the Avalon SLSC.
• Earth Hour SkyTower Torch-lit Tours is holding its Skywalk Tour, reaching SkyTower’s Observation Deck at 8pm and giving less daring souls a once in a lifetime view of a darkened city from above.
• Sydney Observatory is holding an Earth Hour Open Night, giving all budding astronomers the chance to utilise a city in darkness for optimal star gazing.
• Canterbury council is encouraging residents to create lanterns from recycled materials to float on the Cooks River which can be viewed from Gough Whitlam Park at 8pm on the 29 March.
• In Northbridge, the North Shore Climate Action Group and Willoughby Council Sustainability Street are organising a picnic by candlelight for local residents at Warner’s Park Environment Centre.
• Manly Council has organised drumming and didgeridoo performance complemented by fire dancing to celebrate Earth Hour.
• Mars Hill Café in Parramatta is hosting a live acoustic session with local musicians by candlelight.
• Steel Park, located at Illawarra Rd, Marrickville will feature an acoustic performance. Residents are invited to bring a rug and picnic.
• The Sydney couple who married last year in Sydney on Earth Hour night are celebrating their first anniversary. Bride Jo Elvey’s husband has written a song which he’ll played to his wife during Earth Hour on a Baby Grand Piano by candlelight at The Intercontinental Hotel, Sydney.

REGIONAL NSW

• In Warragamba, the Silverdale Business and Community Centre is holding an Earth Hour event in conjunction with the Warragamba Workers and Sporting Club. Organisers are encouraging locals to turn off the lights and appliances at home and come to the club for free nibblies and a lucky door prize between 8pm-9pm on Saturday 29 March, 2008. The Club will be turning off all non-essential lighting and the bistro will have a “candlelight” hour for diners.
• The Sandbar & Restaurant in East Ballina will hold a special Earth Hour dinner in the dark with local musicians playing acoustic sets and the chefs cooking by lamplight.
• The MUDsingers gospel-inspired choir will perform unplugged at the Milton Theatre and by candlelight for an hour as support act for Christine Anu.
• Eco-friendly farm Taroona in Warrinya NSW will celebrate Earth Hour by hosting a candlelight dinner for the local farming community for the second year in a row. Taroona’s 2007 event was a paddock affair centering around a custom-built wrought iron candelabra - in line with the 'lights off' ideals of Earth Hour. For the farmers in Wirrinya, embracing Earth Hour is 'a pro-active response to the ongoing drought and the challenge of climate change, giving us something positive and empowering to focus on at this extremely difficult time.'
• Inspired by the cause, 1,000 people will be cycling from Lithgow to Mudgee on a 13-day trip. The journey, sponsored by Bicycle NSW, focuses on the enjoyable and environmentally-friendly nature of human-powered transport.
• Red Hill Environmental Centre is holding a major Earth Hour event in Gulgong on Earth Hour night.
• The Byron at Byron Resort in Byron Bay is going to host an Earth Hour dinner.

VICTORIA
ICONS GOING DARK: The Arts Centre, Rialto Towers, Luna Park (St Kilda), Melbourne Aquarium, Eureka Towers Skydeck, SkyWheel Birrarung Mar, The Jam Factory, Federation Square, Melbourne Town Hall, Melbourne Zoo and Chadstone Shopping Centre.

EVENTS:

• If you’re one of the few with no plans on 29 March at 8pm, consider attending one of the following, or get inspired and plan your own! Earth Hour is all about the difference individuals can make, so no matter how, please get involved!
• At Melbourne’s Federation Square at 6pm an Earth Hour extravaganza will be hosted by Melissa and Matt Heatherington. Acts will include:
• Richard Gill, Music Director for the Victorian State Opera will lead a community based performance, Megan Washington - Project Feat - Paul Grabowsky, Alana Scanlan Dance Production - a contemporary dance production with fire, award winning break dancers, Wicked Force, rapper Phrase, Michael Paynter and a hot new act from Tasmania, Bridget Pross. After 9, “Green Screen” at Fed Square will feature a series of environmental documentaries late into the night.
• Also at Federation Square, members of the Astronomical Society of Victoria will be providing telescopes for the public to view the stars once the city lights are switched off. Astronomy experts will be available.
• Melbourne Aquarium and Sarti Restaurants, a rooftop vantage point for the southern city, will host private weddings by candlelight.
• Over 40 of Melbourne's top restaurants, in Melbourne’s CBD and suburbs, will be hosting ‘dinner in the dark’ by candlelight. A number of restaurants in regional Victoria will also be holding Earth Hour themed dinners.
• Tatura’s Criterion Hotel will be hosting a pyjama party for patrons. Free beer will be available for those who bring in a black balloon - Melbourne City’s symbol of an individual's carbon footprint.
• Grampians YHA Eco-Hostel is organising a night walk spotlighting tour for travellers to enjoy Earth Hour.
• The CARNI project, an events lounge in South Preston, will be hosting ‘Earth Hour unplugged’, a night of African rhythms and Celtic dance (don’t ask us, we’re just the messengers!). All performances will be unplugged and live, and patrons are encouraged to bring along a candle, candelabra or coloured lantern to help light the way. Go CARNI!
• Icons going dark include the Arts Centre, Rialto Towers, Luna Park (St Kilda), Melbourne Aquarium, Eureka Towers Skydeck, the SkyWheel at Birrarung Marr, Chapel Street’s Jam Factory, Federation Square, Melbourne Town Hall, Melbourne Zoo and Chadstone Shopping Centre.

ACT
ICONS GOING DARK: Parliament House, Old Parliament House, the National Gallery of Australia, Telstra Tower, High Court of Australia, National Museum of Australia, Australian Institute of Sport and the Royal Australian Mint.

EVENTS:
Canberra:

• Public entertainment will feature in Canberra’s CBD. A public screening of The Day After Tomorrow will start at 8:15pm at Garema Place Civic, followed by an acoustic music session featuring The Big Score, Marianne and Jonathan Mettes, Jason Recliner, John Loll Back and The Roving Jugglers. There will be karaoke by candlelight and the poetry slam competition.
• The Canberra Raiders will play 7:30pm at Canberra Stadium. The stadium’s lighting will be offset throughout the day and night by green energy from ActewAGL. Lights will be dimmed in corporate boxes during the game.
• Civic’s King O’Malley’s Bar will be hosting ‘Guinness by candlelight’.
• West Row’s Anise Restaurant, Rydges Lakeside, Canberra’s Southern Cross Clubs (Canberra wide), and Dickson Tradies will also be hosting ‘dinner by candlelight’.
• ACT Rugby Union Club in Barton will be screening rugby on the big-screens by candlelight.

SOUTH AUSTRALIA
ICONS GOING DARK: Adelaide Town Hall, Adelaide Central Markets, Victoria Square Fountain, The Advertiser Building, Westpac Building, South Australian Brewery and Hilton Adelaide.

EVENTS:
Adelaide:

• If you’re looking for somewhere to watch the lights go out on Saturday night, go to Victoria Square in the CBD or to Windy Point - a good vantage point outside of the city.
• The Hilton Hotel and Chianti Classico, a well known Hutt Street restaurant, will be hosting Earth Hour dinners by candlelight.
• Amande Bed and Breakfast, a solar-powered B&B in McLaren Vale will be running a cooking school by candle light, headed up by local cuisine gurus, the Gourmet Blokes.

QUEENSLAND
ICONS GOING DARK: Conrad International Treasury Casino, Story Bridge, City Hall, Victoria Bridge, William Jolly Bridge, Brisbane Square, many State Government buildings.

EVENTS:
BRISBANE

• Numerous Earth Hour community parties and BBQs are taking place, featuring games by candlelight.
• Brisbane City Council is encouraging Brisbane families to view a darker city at vantage points Mt Coot-tha and Kangaroo Point Cliffs.
• Suncorp’s Super Screen will host a public screening of Al Gore’s documentary “An Inconvenient Truth”.
• Many of Brisbane’s top restaurants will be hosting ‘dinner in the dark’ by candlelight. They include Ecco, Gianni’s, Restaurant Two and Three, Rydges Hotel Grey St, Kingley’s Steak and Crab House at Eagle St Pier, and Stone Restaurant, Grey St, Saville Hotel.
• The Stamford Hotel’s will feature drinks by candlelight.
• Regatta Hotel and Brisbane’s Coffee Club will go dark for hour.

WESTERN AUSTRALIA
ICONS GOING DARK: Parliament House, The WACA (WA Cricket Ground), Kings Park, the Narrows Bridge, BankWest Tower, London House, the CityWest Dome, Dumas House, Governor Stirling Tower and Allendale Square, State War Memorial, Perth Convention Exhibition Centre, the Bell Tower and David Jones Stores (nationally).

EVENTS:

• Numerous Earth Hour community parties and BBQs are taking place, featuring various activities and games by candlelight
• Many of Perth’s top restaurants will be hosting ‘dinner in the dark’ by candlelight. They include C Restaurant, Red Cabbage Food and Wine, Adelphi Steak House, Origins, Globe Wine Bar & Restaurant, and Friends.
• The Fremantle Dockers will host Hawthorn at Subiaco Oval and Earth Hour advertising will featured on the big screens to promote awareness about reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
• The City of Fremantle are holding a eco-friendly festival at Parmelia Park in South Fremantle featuring musical entertainment and greens all powered by solar energy!
• Piney Lakes Environment Centre in Winthropare hosting an Earth Hour night with a BBQ, live music and a telescopic tour of the night sky.

TASMANIA
ICONS GOING DARK: Tasmanian Government Departments, Tasman Bridge.

EVENTS:
Hobart:

• Numerous neighbourhood and community events are taking place to celebrate Earth Hour. Children are encouraged to bring torches. At Strickland Avenue, local entertainers will be performing.

GLOBALLY:

ANTARCTICA

EVENTS: In an extraordinary turn of events, Antarctica’s Casey Research Station, located in the Windmill Islands just outside the Antarctic Circle, will be hosting an Earth Hour dinner for its 19 members. Special candelabras have been being made for candles on the night, and sleeping areas and outside will be turned off.
The Casey team has gone to extraordinary efforts to embrace Earth Hour. Based in Antarctica, they’ve witnessed the devastating effects of climate change on this unique landscape first hand. The team recently shrugged off the bitter Antarctic cold to don Earth hour tees in the freezing ice. See image above! Casey, we applaud your efforts and are thrilled to have you on board!


UNITED STATES:

• CHICAGO ICONS: Sears Tower, John Hancock Building, Soldier Field, Wrigley Field, Boeing Headquarters Building, Merchandise Mart, Drake Hotel, Chicago City Hall, CNA Building, Blue Cross/ Blue Shield Building, Chicago Theatre Marquees, Chicago Cubs, Hard Rock Café Logo at Wrigley Field, Over 480 McDonald's, United Center, Navy Pier and Museum Campus at Adler Planetarium.
• ATLANTA ICONS: Coca Cola Headquarters, Georgia Aquarium, Bank of America Plaza, the Fabulous Fox Theatre, Georgia Dome, Westin Peachtree Plaza, the Varsity, Turner Field, Freedom Parkway and Wachovia Building.
• SAN FRANCISCO ICONS: Golden Gate Bridge, Bay Bridge San Francisco Town Hall, Hewlett-Packard Headquarters, Coit Tower, Ghiradelli Square, Alcatraz and AT&T Park.
• SAN FRANCISCO EVENTS FOR EARTH HOUR:
  AT&T Park will be going dark on the night and have been supporting earth hour by presenting videos in lead-up events.
• PHOENIX ICONS: Phoenix Public Buildings, US Airways Arena Marquee, Chase Field Marquee, Phoenix City Hall and Cooper Square.
• NIAGAGRA FALLS: Niagara Falls will be going dark for Earth Hour 2008.
• BUFFALO CREEK: Buffalo Creek Dream Makers Conservation Club will give back three hours by holding a Conservation Fun Day that will have various activities during the day. At 8pm the lights and all electrical items will go out and everyone will enjoy a campfire with storytelling, singing, nocturnal creature studies, and stargazing until 11pm. A candle light service will be held.

CANADA:

• TORONTO ICONS: City Hall, CN Tower, Ontario Science Center, Ontario Place, Honest Ed's, Toronto Eaton Centre, Harbour front buildings, Exhibition Place, Yonge-Dundas Square, Sony Centre, Pearson International Airport, Roy Thompson Hall, Air Canada Centre, Hockey Hall of Fame, Roger's Centre. Toronto Financial District, Queens Park and Royal Ontario Museum.
• TORONTO EVENTS FOR EARTH HOUR:
  Nelly Furtado, an official Earth Hour ambassador, will be headlining an Earth Hour concert at Nathan Phillips Square, City Hall. The event will also feature candle light festivities. View Nelly’s Earth Hour message on You Tube http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=-VvFvYB3vOw&NR=1

DENMARK:

• COPENHAGEN ICONS: Tivoli, the famous amusement park, Town Hall, Opera, Glyptoteket, Magasin, Kgs, Nykredit & Rådhuspladsen (main square towers), Carlsberg, Valby (famous Danish Brewery), Irma-hønen, søerne (famous neon light) Radisson Royal Hotel, Kgl Teater in Kgs. Nytorv, Vor Frue Kirke and Palads.
• AARHUS ICONS: Musikhuset, Town Hall, Århus Domkirke and Hotel Royal.
• AALBORG ICONS: Rosdahls Restaurant (famous restaurant at Harbourfront) Jobcenter and Princes Juliane.
• ODENSE ICONS: Town Hall, Flakenhaven (main city square) and Brandts Klædefabrik.

PHILLIPINES:

• MANILA ICONS: Roxas Boulevard.

ISRAEL:

• TEL AVIV ICONS: Rabin Square, City Hall and Azrieli Tower.
• TEL AVIV EVENTS FOR EARTH HOUR:
  A "green" concert, featuring over 40 local entertainers will be held at Tel-Aviv’s main square for the evening of Earth Hour. The event will be unplugged. All energy supplied to the stage and minimal lighting required for safety will be created on call with renewed and alternative energy.

GREECE:

• AEGINA EVENTS FOR EARTH HOUR: A small community of 14,000 people will come together with local municipality and schools, non-government agencies and other groups to celebrate Earth Hour in Aegean. Screenings of An Inconvenient Truth and the 11th Hour are on the agenda for the evening.

UNITED KINGDOM:

• LONDON: A live music event in London will be held at a park cafe. The event will feature acoustic performances by candlelight and the cafe will serve cold foods. Please contact Paul Richards at paul.richards@brazenbunch.com

To list your event, please e-mail details to earthhour.org.au