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.
Earth Hour Live
Tonight, millions of people are joining together, and turning off their lights to help make a difference and raise awareness about the issue of global warming. See how the world is taking part, with these live news feeds and images from participating cities. Don't forget to share your Earth Hour moments too. Remember - turn off your lights!
Showing posts with label wwf. Show all posts
Showing posts with label wwf. Show all posts
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Saturday, March 29, 2008
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
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:
Official cities include:
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.
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:
- Aalborg, Denmark
- Aarhus, Denmark
- Adelaide, Australia
- Atlanta, United States
- Bangkok, Thailand
- Brisbane, Australia
- Canberra, Australia
- Chicago, United States
- Christchurch, New Zealand
- Copenhagen, Denmark
- Darwin, Australia
- Dublin, Ireland
- Manila, Philippines
- Melbourne, Australia
- Montreal , Canada
- Odense, Denmark
- Ottawa, Canada
- Perth, Australia
- Phoenix , United States
- San Francisco, United States
- Suva, Fiji
- Sydney, Australia
- Tasmania, Australia
- Tel Aviv, Israel
- Toronto, Canada
- 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.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
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:
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:
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:
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:
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
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:
TASMANIA
ICONS GOING DARK: Tasmanian Government Departments, Tasman Bridge.
EVENTS:
Hobart:
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:
CANADA:
DENMARK:
PHILLIPINES:
ISRAEL:
GREECE:
UNITED KINGDOM:
To list your event, please e-mail details to earthhour.org.au
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.
- 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
10 things to do during Earth Hour
Earth Hour is going global this year with many cities from around the globe taking part including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Canberra, Chicago, Toronto, Tel Aviv, Copenhagen, Christchurch, Manila and Suva. It's a global event and all the world's citizens can join in. Anyone can participate by turning off the lights on Saturday 29 March 2008 at 8pm for one hour.
Earth Hour is about taking simple steps everyday that collectively reduce carbon emissions – from businesses turning off their lights when their offices are empty to households turning off appliances rather than leaving them on standby.
Here are ten different ways to spend Earth Hour and reduce your greenhouse gas emissions:
Earth Hour is about taking simple steps everyday that collectively reduce carbon emissions – from businesses turning off their lights when their offices are empty to households turning off appliances rather than leaving them on standby.
Here are ten different ways to spend Earth Hour and reduce your greenhouse gas emissions:
- Gather family & friends for a night picnic
- Dine in one of the many Earth Hour participating restaurants by candlelight
- Organise a family night playing board games
- Throw an Earth Hour street party with your neighbours
- Arrange a house party lit by torches
- Take the dog for a night walk
- Hand write a letter to loved one by lantern
- Sit in the dark and share stories
- Read a book using a book light
- Share a romantic night in with your loved one
Monday, March 3, 2008
Global icons switch off for Earth Hour
Globally renowned buildings and landmarks ‘go dark’ for Earth Hour
3 March 2008 – WWF-Australia today announced a list of international iconic buildings and landmarks that will be veiled in darkness for one hour on March 29 to raise awareness of the impact of climate change.
From Sydney’s Harbour Bridge and Opera House to San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge, world famous skylines will disappear for one hour - Earth Hour. Among those switching off will be the tallest building in North America, the 110 story high Sears Tower in Chicago.
To date, the list includes:
Andy Ridley, executive director for Earth Hour said, “Powering down a city’s skyline and some of the world’s most iconic structures and premier properties is a highly calculated and intricate process, and allowances need to be made to account for safety.
“What makes Earth Hour a unique event is that it brings together governments, business and householders who all play a part in switching off the lights. Working together, individual households alongside the world’s most magnificent iconic landmarks can make an impact in the fight against climate change,” Ridley said.
In support of Earth Hour, more than 3,500 businesses across Australia and internationally have so far signed up and will be doing their part and turning off their lights. McDonald’s Australia has committed to turning off its Golden Arches nationally. David Jones will turn off the lights in its 36 department stores. It is hoped that many more businesses get behind the initiative.
While there are 24 official cities taking part in Earth Hour, there are many more cities expected to turn off the lights all over the world, and WWF-Australia estimates that more than 30 million people will take part. To date, 58,615 people have signed up to Earth Hour but that number is set to soar.
“Last year, 2.2 million Sydneysiders took part in Earth Hour and this year we expect that figure to be in the tens of millions. We are excited by the overwhelming public support Earth Hour is receiving around the world. Earth Hour is all about people sharing responsibility for reducing greenhouse gas emissions,” Ridley said.
Atlanta, San Francisco, Phoenix, Bangkok, Ottawa, Vancouver, Montreal, Dublin, Sydney, Perth, Melbourne, Canberra, Brisbane, Adelaide, Copenhagen, Aarhus, Aalborg, Odense, Manila, Suva, Chicago, Tel Aviv, Toronto and Christchurch will switch off for Earth Hour on Saturday March 29, at 8pm local time.
For more information contact:
Kath Eggleston, WWF-Australia Press Office
T: +61 2 8202 1294 / 0408 408 562
E: keggleston@wwf.org.au
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.
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.
3 March 2008 – WWF-Australia today announced a list of international iconic buildings and landmarks that will be veiled in darkness for one hour on March 29 to raise awareness of the impact of climate change.
From Sydney’s Harbour Bridge and Opera House to San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge, world famous skylines will disappear for one hour - Earth Hour. Among those switching off will be the tallest building in North America, the 110 story high Sears Tower in Chicago.
To date, the list includes:
- Australia
- Sydney: Harbour Bridge, Opera House, Centrepoint Tower, Coke sign on
William St, NSW Parliament, Town Hall, Kirribilli House, Luna Park,
buildings facing Circular Quay, Blues Point Tower. - Melbourne: The Arts Centre, Rialto Towers, Luna Park (St Kilda),
Melbourne Aquarium, The Jam Factory, Federation Square, Melbourne
Town Hall and Melbourne Zoo. - Adelaide: Adelaide Town Hall, Adelaide Central Markets, Victoria Square
Fountain, The Advertiser building, Hilton Adelaide. - Brisbane: Casino, Story Bridge, City Hall, Victoria Bridge, William Jolly
Bridge, Brisbane Square, a number of State Government parliamentary
buildings - Perth: The WACA (WA Cricket Ground)
- USA
- Atlanta: Coca Cola Headquarters, Georgia Aquarium-largest in the world.
- Chicago: Sears Tower, John Hancock Building, Soldier Field (home of
Chicago Bears football), Boeing Headquarters Building, Merchandise
Mart, Drake Hotel, Chicago City Hall, C N A Building, Blue Cross/Blue
Shield Building, Chicago Theater Marquees in downtown, Hard Rock
Cafe marquee at Wrigley Field (home of the Chicago Cubs). - San Francisco: San Francisco Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco
Bay Bridge - San Francisco Town Hall and the head offices of USA IT
partner Hewlett-Packard Company (Palo Alto, CA). - Phoenix: City government buildings
- Canada
- Toronto: All City of Toronto Buildings, CN Tower, Ontario Science
Centre, Ontario Place, Honest Ed’s, Toronto Eaton Centre. - Ireland
- Dublin: Office of Public Works, non-essential lights of Government
Buildings, Customs House, Dublin City buildings. - Israel
- Tel Aviv: Azrieali Tower, City Hall building and all hotels.
Andy Ridley, executive director for Earth Hour said, “Powering down a city’s skyline and some of the world’s most iconic structures and premier properties is a highly calculated and intricate process, and allowances need to be made to account for safety.
“What makes Earth Hour a unique event is that it brings together governments, business and householders who all play a part in switching off the lights. Working together, individual households alongside the world’s most magnificent iconic landmarks can make an impact in the fight against climate change,” Ridley said.
In support of Earth Hour, more than 3,500 businesses across Australia and internationally have so far signed up and will be doing their part and turning off their lights. McDonald’s Australia has committed to turning off its Golden Arches nationally. David Jones will turn off the lights in its 36 department stores. It is hoped that many more businesses get behind the initiative.
While there are 24 official cities taking part in Earth Hour, there are many more cities expected to turn off the lights all over the world, and WWF-Australia estimates that more than 30 million people will take part. To date, 58,615 people have signed up to Earth Hour but that number is set to soar.
“Last year, 2.2 million Sydneysiders took part in Earth Hour and this year we expect that figure to be in the tens of millions. We are excited by the overwhelming public support Earth Hour is receiving around the world. Earth Hour is all about people sharing responsibility for reducing greenhouse gas emissions,” Ridley said.
Atlanta, San Francisco, Phoenix, Bangkok, Ottawa, Vancouver, Montreal, Dublin, Sydney, Perth, Melbourne, Canberra, Brisbane, Adelaide, Copenhagen, Aarhus, Aalborg, Odense, Manila, Suva, Chicago, Tel Aviv, Toronto and Christchurch will switch off for Earth Hour on Saturday March 29, at 8pm local time.
For more information contact:
Kath Eggleston, WWF-Australia Press Office
T: +61 2 8202 1294 / 0408 408 562
E: keggleston@wwf.org.au
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.
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.
Friday, February 22, 2008
Bangkok, Dublin and San Francisco join Earth Hour
Eight new cities join the fight against climate change
February 20, 2008 - Twenty four international cities will take part in WWF’s Earth Hour climate change campaign this year after another eight metropolitan centers joined the movement this week.
Atlanta, San Francisco, Phoenix, Bangkok, Ottawa, Vancouver, Montreal and Dublin all pledged this week to join Sydney, Perth, Melbourne, Canberra, Brisbane, Adelaide, Copenhagen, Aarhus, Aalborg, Odense, Manila, Suva, Chicago, Tel Aviv, Toronto and Christchurch for Earth Hour on Saturday March 29, at 8pm local time.
Earth Hour is the highlight of a major campaign to encourage businesses, communities and individuals to take the simple steps needed to cut their greenhouse gas emissions and become more energy efficient.
In a world first last year, 2.2 million Sydney residents turned off lights and appliances for one hour as a step towards reducing the city’s greenhouse gas pollution. This year, that number is set to reach the tens of millions with some of the world’s most recognisable icons going dark in a collective stand against climate change.
Andy Ridley, Executive Director of Earth Hour, said the response to round two of Earth Hour had been hugely positive.
“Last year we were incredibly excited that more than two million people in Sydney took part in Earth Hour. If we see the same participation levels around the globe that we did in Sydney, then we can anticipate more than 30 million people involved.
“Even though the response has been overwhelming, we’re still hopeful that more cities will come on board and take up the challenge. Climate change is a truly global issue and people around the world are demanding action. We’re delighted there has been so much interest from major cities around the world,” Mr Ridley said.
The Lord Mayor of Dublin, Councillor Paddy Bourke said, "Earth Hour is an international campaign and Dublin is one of the latest cities to get behind this important event where on March 29 all non- essential lights will be switched off for an hour. This campaign is important and everyone from citizens up to Government has a duty to do what they can against global warming. It is up to us all to do what we can to reduce our CO2 emissions. Through one simple action, turning off our lights for an hour, we can deliver a powerful message about the need for action.”
Climate change is the most significant threat to life on Earth, with some of the world’s most
recognisable natural wonders like the Great Barrier Reef, Antarctica, and the Amazon rainforest threatened by rising temperatures and changing weather patterns.
WWF is urging people and communities all around the world to help make Earth Hour 2008 a success by switching off lights and non-essential appliances for one hour between 8pm and 9pm on March 29.
For more information on Earth Hour, to pledge your support or find out how you can get Earth Hour happening in your city, go to www.earthhour.org
For more information contact:
Kath Eggleston, WWF-Australia Press Office
T: +61 2 8202 1294 / 0408 408 562
E: keggleston@wwf.org.au
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.
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.
February 20, 2008 - Twenty four international cities will take part in WWF’s Earth Hour climate change campaign this year after another eight metropolitan centers joined the movement this week.
Atlanta, San Francisco, Phoenix, Bangkok, Ottawa, Vancouver, Montreal and Dublin all pledged this week to join Sydney, Perth, Melbourne, Canberra, Brisbane, Adelaide, Copenhagen, Aarhus, Aalborg, Odense, Manila, Suva, Chicago, Tel Aviv, Toronto and Christchurch for Earth Hour on Saturday March 29, at 8pm local time.
Earth Hour is the highlight of a major campaign to encourage businesses, communities and individuals to take the simple steps needed to cut their greenhouse gas emissions and become more energy efficient.
In a world first last year, 2.2 million Sydney residents turned off lights and appliances for one hour as a step towards reducing the city’s greenhouse gas pollution. This year, that number is set to reach the tens of millions with some of the world’s most recognisable icons going dark in a collective stand against climate change.
Andy Ridley, Executive Director of Earth Hour, said the response to round two of Earth Hour had been hugely positive.
“Last year we were incredibly excited that more than two million people in Sydney took part in Earth Hour. If we see the same participation levels around the globe that we did in Sydney, then we can anticipate more than 30 million people involved.
“Even though the response has been overwhelming, we’re still hopeful that more cities will come on board and take up the challenge. Climate change is a truly global issue and people around the world are demanding action. We’re delighted there has been so much interest from major cities around the world,” Mr Ridley said.
The Lord Mayor of Dublin, Councillor Paddy Bourke said, "Earth Hour is an international campaign and Dublin is one of the latest cities to get behind this important event where on March 29 all non- essential lights will be switched off for an hour. This campaign is important and everyone from citizens up to Government has a duty to do what they can against global warming. It is up to us all to do what we can to reduce our CO2 emissions. Through one simple action, turning off our lights for an hour, we can deliver a powerful message about the need for action.”
Climate change is the most significant threat to life on Earth, with some of the world’s most
recognisable natural wonders like the Great Barrier Reef, Antarctica, and the Amazon rainforest threatened by rising temperatures and changing weather patterns.
WWF is urging people and communities all around the world to help make Earth Hour 2008 a success by switching off lights and non-essential appliances for one hour between 8pm and 9pm on March 29.
For more information on Earth Hour, to pledge your support or find out how you can get Earth Hour happening in your city, go to www.earthhour.org
For more information contact:
Kath Eggleston, WWF-Australia Press Office
T: +61 2 8202 1294 / 0408 408 562
E: keggleston@wwf.org.au
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.
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.
Thursday, January 31, 2008
MAJOR CITIES AROUND THE WORLD JOIN WWF IN FIGHTING CLIMATE CHANGE DURING EARTH HOUR 2008
Chicago, Copenhagen, Sydney, Tel Aviv, Toronto and others create awareness and demonstrate leadership by switching off their lights on March 29, 2008
Bali, Indonesia, December 14, 2007: WWF today announced the official launch of Earth Hour, a global initiative in which cities and communities will turn out their lights to symbolise their leadership and commitment to finding solutions for climate change.
Cities from across Europe, North America, Asia and Asia Pacific, including Chicago, Copenhagen, Manila, Melbourne, Sydney, Tel Aviv and Toronto were named as the flagship participants in the WWF-led event on March 29, 2008, with more cities expected to join in the days ahead.
“On behalf of the WWF International network, I want to commend and thank the mayors and officials in our flagship cities for playing a leadership role in supporting this unique global event and demonstrating their commitment to fighting climate change,” said WWF Director General James Leape.
“During Earth Hour, governments, businesses, community leaders and individuals will be turning out their lights and switching on their support for actions that can help make a difference in the most significant challenge facing the world today. While we expect the government leaders here in Bali to make courageous decisions that are needed to save our planet, Earth Hour reminds us that each of us can be part of the solution to climate change,” Leape said.
WWF’s inaugural Earth Hour took place in Sydney Australia in March this year with more than 2.2 million people participating in an effort that darkened icons such as the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge and resulted in a ten per cent drop in energy usage – double what had been predicted.
“The event in Sydney created a powerful global message that it’s possible for individuals to take meaningful action on climate change – and that’s the message we now intend to take to people all around the world,” said WWF-Australia CEO Greg Bourne. “Reducing the world’s emissions is a shared responsibility. Each city must commit to reducing its carbon output and every single person, business and community should take it upon themselves to participate.”
“In March 2007, 2.2 million Sydneysiders began the Earth Hour journey, and now it is time to take Earth Hour to the rest of the world,” said Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore, urging her fellow mayors throughout the world to join the Earth Hour initiative. “From rural towns in the outback to highly populated iconic cities – everyone can take simple steps to make Earth Hour happen.”
“Earth Hour will send a strong signal that people all around the world are deeply concerned and expect their leaders to take action before it’s too late,” Leape said. “Climate change is a global challenge that requires global solutions and it’s clear that the people of this planet are ready to get involved and find the answers.”
Mayors from other flagship cities issued the following statements in support of the event:
Ritt Bjerregaard, Lord Mayor of Copenhagen (Denmark)
“It is very important to give a signal to people that you can make a difference and help us to shut down the lights to reduce the amount of CO2. In Copenhagen, people will be thinking about climate change and how they can help the situation. I hope that all cities, all over the world will be part of it. Our cities inhabitants take climate change seriously. Maybe there are a few politicians who are not taking it seriously and who are not willing to go into a different type of agreement, but our citizens are serious and will show them on the day.”
John So, Lord Mayor of Melbourne (Australia)
“I am proud to announce that the City of Melbourne will join Sydney and Brisbane in the fight against global warming, by being part of Earth Hour in 2008. One small contribution from each and every person is a pledge to reduce emissions by five per cent. That is the message of Earth Hour. I urge the people of Melbourne to get behind Earth Hour and let the world know Melbourne is serious about being an environmentally responsible city.”
David Miller, Mayor of Toronto (Canada)
“I am proud to announce that the city of Toronto will continue our fight against global warming by being part of Earth Hour in 2008. Every resident, every business and every government has a duty to fight global warming because reducing the world emissions is a shared responsibility. I believe where nations fail to lead, cities can and must lead. In the city of Toronto we have very aggressive goals to reduce global warming and stop climate change. The Earth Hour project is a very exciting way to raise awareness of this critical issue. I encourage all Torontonians at 8pm on March 29 to turn off their lights. Because we all know that changes to everyday behaviors is the only way we can succeed.”
LIST OF CITIES PARTICIPATING IN EARTH HOUR 2008 (as of December 14, 2007)
- Aalborg, Denmark
- Aarhus, Denmark
- Brisbane, Australia
- Chicago, USA
- Copenhagen, Denmark
- Manila, Philippines
- Melbourne, Australia
- Odense, Denmark
- Suva, Fiji
- Sydney, Australia
- Tel Aviv, Israel
- Toronto, Canada
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.
Leo Burnett
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.
Media enquiries
- Andy Ridley, Executive Director, Earth Hour +61 415 865 992
- Leslie Aun, Vice President, Public Relations, WWF-US, +1 703 517 4550
- Rachael Hoy, WWF-Australia, +61 2 8202 1242 / +61 415 643 165
- Kath Eggleston, WWF-Australia, +61 2 8202 1294 / +61 408 408 562
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