The Phoenix Foundation sound their support for Earth Hour

They’ll be on stage opening for Split Enz during Earth Hour, but that won't stop bright stars of New Zealand's indie rock scene The Phoenix Foundation from celebrating Earth Hour in spirit.

"We might do a couple of songs with the PA and all the lights turned off – maybe a couple of megaphones and acoustic guitars," mused Phoenix drummer Richie Singleton, in an interview with The Press.

The Phoenix Foundation are New Zealand’s first band to sound their support for Earth Hour, the global climate change event which will see the lights of Christchurch - and 23 other cities around the globe - go out for one hour on 29 March at 8pm.

Earth Hour is a WWF-led initiative, which shows that small individual actions – like switching off a light – add up to a big difference in the fight against climate change. Christchurch is the first New Zealand city to commit to Earth Hour, with city lights and iconic buildings in Christchurch, and in Sydney, Bangkok, San Francisco and other forward thinking cities, being plunged into darkness as their citizens take a stand on climate change.

The Phoenix’s Richie Singleton, who also works for the Sustainability Trust based in Wellington, said: "A lot of people in New Zealand think our energy is quite green when it’s not and Earth Hour is a good way to get that knowledge out there, get people thinking about it all.

"Earth Hour draws attention to the fact that 34 per cent of New Zealand's electricity is generated by burning fossil fuels. We can actually make a significant reduction to our carbon emissions by making our homes and businesses more energy efficient and by simply switching things off at the wall."

Along with turning off their lights for one hour on Saturday 29 March, people who commit to Earth Hour are being asked to switch unused appliances off standby. Orion New Zealand will monitor the power usage in Christchurch, New Zealand’s Earth Hour city, to monitor the energy saved during Earth Hour.

"Stand-by power consumes around 10 per cent of an average household's electricity, and most of it goes on small appliances like DVD players. Over the course of a year a DVD player can use more electricity sitting in stand-by mode than it will actually playing DVDs," says Singleton.

Orion New Zealand will monitor the power use in Christchurch during Earth Hour to measure how much electricity is saved as the city powers-down. Earth Hour asks people and businesses who commit to Earth Hour to aim to reduce their carbon emissions by five per cent over the first year of Earth Hour. To find simple ways you can reduce your carbon emissions and lead a more sustainable life every day, go to http://www.wwf.org.nz/index.php?URL=http://www.sustainability.govt.nz.%26nbsp%3B

WWF is encouraging everyone in Christchurch and around New Zealand to get involved and commit to Earth Hour, as Dairne Poole, WWF-New Zealand Climate Change Manager explains: "Earth Hour is a chance for every person who is concerned about climate change to commit to making a difference in their own lives, starting with switching off their lights for Earth Hour. This is a huge global event which shows that what we might feel are small actions – like switching off a light, or turning off our appliances at the wall – add up to a big difference, collectively."
There will be acoustic music events in Christchurch on the night of Earth Hour, along with community-run events around the city.

You can register online to commit to turning out your lights for Earth Hour. Sign up to receive news and information about the night’s events, along with information on how to cut your carbon emissions and live Earth Hour every day.
-ENDS-

Rabuka urges shipping companies to join Earth Hour

SUVA: Bligh Water Shipping Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and former Prime Minister Major-General Sitiveni Rabuka urges all shipping companies to support the Earth Hour campaign and turn off the lights for all ships at Suva harbor on 29^th March for one hour.

"I would recommend any other shipping company to contribute to this campaign. We are leaving in a degrading environment and for shipping companies it is very important to have a clean and healthy ocean," said Mr. Rabuka.

Mr. Rabuka, as an Earth Hour Champion said: "The environment should be very close to our hearts and if we want our grandchildren enjoying this environment then we need to conserve and a small way to show our support is by supporting causes like Earth Hour."

“Not just for Earth Hour but also for economic reasons it would be useful to reduce our electricity bills. My company will not stop in March, we will compare the electricity bills for the last six months and will monitor out next six months bills. We are going to address our energy consumption for the long term,”

"From a company’s point of view, we are going to save a lot of cash and if simple operators take this programme on board they are going to save so much," he said.

Bligh Water Shipping’s involvement will see the Sullivan switch off all its lights while Westerland will sail with minimum lighting for an hour on 29^th March. These ferries provide services between Viti Levu, Vanua Levu and Tavuni.

Mr. Rabuka said passengers taking day trips on board his company’s ships are often entertained by dolphins swimming along the boats.

“It has brought this point very close to our hearts that we need to conserve the environment so we continue to enjoy seeing dolphins, other sea creatures and rich coral life.”

Mr. Rabuka's participation as a Cakaudrove native and CEO of Blight Water Shipping led him to roll out Earth Hour to all his staff.

"I sent out an email to all the staff in the various departments telling them the need to cut down on our energy consumption and from those departments they each nominate an Earth Hour champion."

“Switching off for one hour will not affect our business and it’s only about switching of the lights which is easy to do for every individual. This is a very visible way to demonstrate our concern for our planet and I would loath if I wasn’t part of this”

Mr. Rabuka has seen the changes that Climate Change is having on his island of Drekenawai, Navatu in Cakaudrove.

He said, "Coming from a coastal island my house is just right next to the sea, before there used to be a beach but because of the changing tides, we have had to build a sea wall."

"There are more than 300 islands in Fiji, and depending on the tide there can be 305 but lets hope that it won't go down to only 290 islands someday."

Mr. Rabuka, has recently been named one of Fiji’s Earth Hour Champion as momentum gathers towards the 29th of March. Suva City Council , Lautoka City Council ,Lami Town Council have joined the Earth Hour campaign in Fiji.

The event which saw 2.2 million Sydney-siders switching off their lights for an hour is going global this year with 26 more cities already confirming their participation.

Nelly Furtado Headlines Earth Hour concert in Toronto

The partners of Toronto’s Earth Hour today announced that multi-platinum Grammy and Juno Award-winner, and Canada’s own, Nelly Furtado will join Earth Hour as the first Canadian Earth Hour Ambassador. She will also perform a free concert at Nathan Phillips Square on March 29 to celebrate Earth Hour.

Nelly Furtado will join other Earth Hour Ambassadors including Natalie Imbruglia, Silverchair and Rolf Harris.As an Earth Hour Ambassador and an advocate for the environment, Nelly Furtado will play an unplugged concert at the Earth Hour community event, starting at 7:30 p.m. The organizers are taking steps to make the event as carbon-neutral as possible – including powering the event with green, renewable energy from Bullfrog Power. People from across the GTA are invited to attend.

Get creative for Earth Hour and win!

The Earth Hour team in the ACT would like to invite school-aged children to take inspiration from the Earth Hour movement and use their creativity in the fight against global warming. This is the first year Canberra has taken part in Earth Hour and we are looking for your energy saving ideas.

Earth Hour ACT schools competition – win cool stuff and help cool the earth!

How would you like to win one of five Earth Hour prize packs containing lots of cool stuff, like a family pass to see the Raiders play the Dragons on the night of Earth Hour?
Winning is easy! All you have to do is visit the ActewAGL education website and
share your great Earth Hour ideas. Tell us in 50 words or less how your school can save energy to help stop global warming.

Be creative and think outside the square! Remember you only have 50 words so use them wisely. Don’t forget to fill in all your details so we can tell you if you win!

Entries close at 4.00pm on Tuesday 25 March 2008. The five best entries chosen on 26 March will win a cool Earth Hour pack.

Each prize pack includes:

1 family pass (two adults and two children) to see the Canberra Raiders play the St George Illawarra Dragons at Canberra Stadium on Saturday 29 March 2008
1 green science kit (Enviro Battery or Dynamo Torch)
1 Grapevine USB thumbdrive to save time and paper
1 Earth Hour t-shirt
2 Earth Hour posters

To enter visit the ActewAGL education website at www.actewagl.com.au/education

Medieval Wexford secures Earth Hour support

Wexford, a medieval town, in the 'Model County' is the next town in Ireland to lend their support to Earth Hour 2008.

Wexford Town Mayor Cllr. George Lawlor is absolutely thrilled that his efforts to secure support from the Town Council have proved successful.
"It is very important to give a signal to people that you can make a difference, I am so proud to announce that the town of Wexford will join other towns and cities in Ireland in the fight against global warming, by being part of Earth Hour in 2008."

Local authorities in towns such as Tralee and Kilkenny have now endorsed the Earth Hour campaign and their local Chamber of Commerce is obliged to ensure that businesses play their part on March 29th

Brisbane landmarks, icons set to 'go dark'

A number of Brisbane landmarks, including the Story Bridge and Treasury Casino, will be veiled in darkness for one hour later this month to raise awareness of the impact of climate change.

Several Queensland icons will join an illustrious list of international buildings taking part in Earth Hour, WWF-Australia announced today.

From Sydney’s Harbour Bridge and Opera House to San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge, world famous skylines will disappear for one hour at 8pm on March 29. Among those switching off will be the tallest building in North America, the 110 story high Sears Tower in Chicago.

Sydney, the birthplace of Earth Hour, captured the imagination of the world in 2007, when its iconic harbour purposefully plunged into darkness. A year later, more than 24 cities across the globe have followed in Sydney’s footsteps taking a stand against climate change by joining the campaign.

Brisbane Lord Mayor Campbell Newman, Chair of the Council of Mayors (SEQ), has challenged southeast Queenslanders to do even better than their southern counterparts in a bid to protect the beautiful southeast corner.

"Brisbane City Council has 15 structures and buildings that will join the big black-out for Earth Hour," he said.

"That includes Brisbane's top iconic landmarks, the Story Bridge, William Jolly Bridge and Victoria Bridge - and our green star high rises, Brisbane Square and Green Square.

"I'm calling on all houses and businesses across the region to join us in this simple step - and help bring huge change."

Through Brisbane City Council’s GreenHeart CitySmart campaign, we’ll use the Earth Hour results to show people how they can keep reducing their carbon footprint.

“I believe we can make huge energy savings through simple, daily changes - just as we’ve made world class water savings.”

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.

'Garden of Ireland' endorses Earth Hour 2008

Councillors in Wicklow County, (otherwise known as the 'Garden of Ireland') passed a resolution supporting the Earth Hour campaign today.
The Cathaoirleach (chairperson) of Wicklow County Council, Cllr Anne Ferris, has welcomed the fact that the Council has endorsed a motion of support for the Earth Hour campaign.

"We've have been working hard on this campaign for some time now and I am delighted that so many others have rowed in behind it. 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.Little effort is needed to make a huge impact. Looking at the success of the campaign in Sydney we know Earth Hour’s hour of darkness can help shed some light on what we can all do"

Meanwhile the campaign in Ireland, has also received the support of organisations such as the National Youth Council and Dublin Docklands

And Independent Senator, Ivana Bacik has also lent her support to the campaign, speaking earlier today she said "I warmly welcome the Earth Hour initiative which I know will receive the support of thousands of Dubliners. I would strongly urge everyone to contribute to this important energy-saving action; and to participate in this great public movement to highlight the issue of light-pollution internationally."

Prime Minister launches Earth Hour

They may seem small, but they matter.

That was the message from Prime Minister Helen Clark, as she spoke about the importance of small individual actions in fighting climate change, officially launching Earth Hour in Christchurch at Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetu.

"Events like Earth Hour Christchurch are important because they raise awareness of the worldwide sustainability challenge. It also shows how we can all make a difference, and how, when we work together, our small actions can have a big collective impact," said Helen Clark.

The Prime Minister was guest of honour as Christchurch's business and community leaders gathered to celebrate their city's commitment to Earth Hour, which will see the lights of the city go out for one hour on 29 March at 8pm.

Amongst the guest were children from The Cathedral Grammar Pre-School who thanked the Prime Minister for her support by presenting her with an Earth Hour card (pictured above).

Speaking at the launch, the Prime Minister praised Christchurch for taking a stand on climate change and becoming the first city in New Zealand to commit to Earth Hour.

Due to its position on the globe, Christchurch will also be the first of the Earth Hour family of cities to turn out the lights for Earth Hour, alongside Suva, Fiji.

Mayor of Christchurch, Bob Parker, also gave his full public backing to Earth Hour. WWF-New Zealand Executive Director, Chris Howe, and Editor of The Press, Andrew Holden encouraged people and businesses in Christchurch to commit to Earth Hour, by switching off their lights on 29 March at 8pm for one hour.

Earth Hour will see iconic Christchurch buildings and lights in the city centre, from the Cathedral lights to the red neon sign of The Press, plunged into darkness for one hour.

WWF and The Press are encouraging all people in Christchurch and across New Zealand to get involved in Earth Hour by committing to Earth Hour by registering online.

In Christchurch, Earth Hour celebrations will include an acoustic candle-lit music event in the city. To receive details of this and other events in the lead up to Earth Hour, register your details here.

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:

• 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.
  

Sydney, the birthplace of Earth Hour, captured the imagination of the world in 2007, when its iconic harbour purposefully plunged into darkness. A year later, more than 24 cities across the globe have followed in Sydney’s footsteps taking a stand against climate change by joining the campaign.

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.

Earth Hour gains momentum in Fiji: Lami town will put ‘lights out’ for Earth Hour

The Lami Town council is set to be the first town in Fiji and the world to show support and champion the cause of addressing climate change through Earth Hour.

Lami Town council is organising a Clean Up campaign for its community on the 29th of March and will switch off all non essential lights between 8.00 - 9.00 pm.

The Western side of Viti Levu is being led by Lautoka City Council who has also joined the Earth Hour campaign.

Ms Preeya Leli, Lami Town Council Clerk/CEO said: "We are very much into the Earth Hour project and the council intends to not only observe this event, but also organise a community clean up campaign during the day."

"This is a community based programme and the Council together with the assistance from the Commonwealth Local Government Forum, Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Health will be carrying out this clean up."

"We will be sending out newsletters to all residents and businesses to inform them on what they can do and how they can assist in making this a success. We are also looking to making this event an annual one."

Lautoka is the second city in Fiji to join the Earth Hour following Suva City Council.

Rohit Kumar, Lautoka Councilor said: “I was amazed when I was approached for Lautoka to be a part of this Earth Hour project. We have always considered ourselves to be environmentally friendly.”

“By adopting the Earth Hour Principles it would be a great step for people to achieve a green environment that is healthy.

“I believe that we are also the first city to sign up on the Ozone Depleting Substances-ODS. We monitor the companies and appliances are correctly labeled for producing these gases,” he said.

Lami Town and Lautoka city will join Suva City and 24 major cities around the world on March 29 at 8 pm when it turns off its lights for an hour- to symbolize that local government, governments, businesses and people can make a difference in the fight against Global Warming.

Lights out – global Earth Hour campaign launches in Canberra

On 31 March 2007, 2.2 million people and 2,100 Sydney businesses turned off their lights for one hour – Earth Hour – reducing Sydney’s energy consumption by 10.2% for that hour. At 8pm on Saturday 29 March 2008, Canberra will join other cities around the world in switching off its lights for one hour to take a stand against global warming.

The ACT Chief Minister Jon Stanhope launched Earth Hour in Canberra at the Mount Stromlo Observatory on Friday 15 February.

Canberra joins many cities around the globe participating in Earth Hour 2008, including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, Chicago, Toronto, Tel Aviv, Copenhagen, Christchurch, Manila and Suva.

“Earth Hour 2008, with its international contingent, hopes to spread the message that reducing the world’s emissions is a shared global responsibility,” said WWF-Australia CEO Greg Bourne. “WWF-Australia is inviting towns, cities and communities around the world to sign on.

“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.”

ActewAGL CEO John Mackay said, “ActewAGL is committed to environmentally sustainable practices and we’re proud to demonstrate this commitment by being a major supporter of the Earth Hour initiative, along with WWF-Australia, The Canberra Times, Canberra CBD Limited and the ACT Government.

“The success of Earth Hour depends largely on the participation of each city’s corporate sector. We are anticipating fantastic support from Canberra’s business community to help make Earth Hour a huge success both locally and internationally.

“Its also important to remember that the greenest unit of energy is the one that we don't use at all.”

Mr Stanhope said, “Earth Hour sends a powerful message – that each of us can help combat climate change through the actions we take and the behaviours we change in our own lives.

“I encourage all Canberrans to demonstrate our city’s commitment to the issue of climate change by getting behind this movement and switching off for one hour, Earth Hour, on Saturday 29 March.”

Sign up online and contact the ACT Earth Hour Team at earthhour@actewagl.com.au for further information.

Suva hotel joins Earth Hour and practices energy reduction

SUVA: JJ's on the park, one of Suva’s leading boutique hotel and restaurant, has pledged their support for the WWF lead Earth Hour event by organising a candle light dinner for its guests and the public on Saturday 29th March, 2008.
Peter Mazey, JJ's on the Park General Manager said: "JJ’s has for some time looked for ways in which we as a hotel and in which our guests can work at reducing their carbon footprint.”

"On Saturday 29th March a newsletter will be given to all hotel guests giving details of Earth Hour and asking all to participate. We will be advertising and promoting for people to join us for a Candle Light dinner."

“At the appointed hour we will be switching off all outside lights and will only have gas lanterns going. Only emergency lights will be on in the hotel and candles will be delivered to all guest rooms to enable their own participation," he added.

"In addition to our normal menu guests at dinner will be offered blackboard specials incorporating locally grown products."

This event will mark the beginning of an annual event for JJ's and they have also taken the initiative to inform their guests and all staff about the need to cut down on their energy use. The hotel has already taken the necessary steps from a professional consultant to advice them on ways to cut down on their energy consumption.

"In 2004 we employed an Electrical Engineering consultant to completely analyze our energy use in particular our electrical use. The result was a report with recommendations of simple actions such as removing a number of surplus light bulbs and we were able to reduce our electricity consumption. Our hall ways and restaurant had far too many light bulbs. Where possible light bulbs have been replaced with energy saving bulbs."

"We do promote energy saving principles and an interesting example of this is what we call our “energy patrol” whereby every night our room service staff go around the hotel and into all vacant rooms just to ensure that all lights are turned off and all air conditioners are off. This has assisted us in creating major savings in our electrical usage and wastage," Mazey said.

All businesses including hotels and restaurants are encouraged to join the Earth Hour campaign and look at their footprint. Earth Hour will commence on the 29th of March where the City of Suva will be the first city in the world to switch off and the only city from the South Pacific to do so.

Simon Bryant spearheads Earth Hour in 2008

As Earth Hour draws closer, the Adelaide City Council has recruited organisations across the City to get behind this global initiative.

The Hilton Adelaide is the latest to join the growing list with Earth Hour ambassador and Head Chef at the Hilton, Simon Bryant, throwing his support behind the event.

A leading Adelaide chef and media personality, Simon is encouraging other businesses in Adelaide to reduce their carbon emissions during 2008 and begin by switching off their lights on March 29 for an hour at 8pm.

He is putting his words into action by hosting an exclusive dinner by candlelight at the Hilton Brasserie restaurant on March 29.

Simon has also identified the kitchen as one of the biggest energy-guzzling rooms within the home and therefore, a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions.

"As Autumn approaches we start to look at preparing delicious food incorporating the flavours of the season but it’s also a time to make a few changes towards a more environmentally-friendly lifestyle," said Simon. The average Australian home produces about half a tonne of greenhouse gas each year from energy used for cooking, according to the Australia Government’s Greenhouse Office.

Simon’s 10 tips for energy smart cooking:
1. Choose a fridge or freezer that’s the right size for you – they operate more efficiently when filled to the correct capacity
2. Keep the fridge temperature between 3 and 40C and the freezer between -15 and -18 degrees celcius
3. To save water in the kitchen, wash vegetables in a small amount of water in sink, rather than under a running tap
4. Avoid using in-sink garbage disposal units – compost instead
Avoid gas flames spilling up the sides of pots – turn the burner down to keep flames on the bottom.
5. Thaw food in the fresh food compartment of the fridge before cooking
6. If cooking in the oven, avoid opening the door unnecessarily and consider cooking several things at once
7. Make sure your fridge rubber seals are effective by placing a piece of paper in the door and checking if it is held firmly
8. Fan forced ovens generate up to 35 per cent less greenhouse gas emissions than conventional ovens, and more items can be cooked at the same time as the heat is more evenly distributed
9. A family fridge with an extra star on its rating label cuts greenhouse gas emissions by more than 100 kilograms each year. Over its lifetime it will save $200 in running costs
10. Don’t forget to ride your bike to do your shopping at the market!

OPW Minister makes EarthHour commitment

In the Dail (Irish Parliament) the Minister responsible for the Office of Public Works (OPW for short) has just agreed to participate in the Earth Hour 2008 campaign. The OPW provides accommodation for Government services and manages and maintains the State's property portfolio not just in Dublin but, throughout the country. We can expect iconic landmarks such as the Custom House on the Quays and Government Buildings to switch off on March 29th.

Support for the campaign is steadily growing now as both Limerick City and Galway City councils are supporting this initiative. A big thanks to Kieran Walsh in Limerick for his efforts

Earth Hour Corporate Breakfast - Tues 4th March 2008

Date: Tuesday 4th March

Venue: Melbourne Town Hall, Swanston St

Time: 7:30-9am

Cost: $1,500 for four tickets
($1360 is tax deductible as a donation to WWF-Australia)


Hosted by:

• Lord Mayor, John So
• Mr Don Churchill, Chief Executive & Publisher, The Age

Guest speakers / attendees include:

• Greg Bourne CEO, WWF-Australia
• Tony Wood, General Manager, Public and Government Affairs, Origin Energy
• Suzanne Kerwan, Director ibm.com, Australia and New Zealand
• Hamish and Andy, Austereo

For bookings call Annette Brook on 03 9650 8800 or
Register online at: www.about.theage.com.au/earthhour


On the 29th March at 8pm, Melbourne will help to fight global warming by being part of Earth Hour 2008, when every major Australian capital city and over 20 others around the world will turn off city lights for one hour.

Earth Hour is part of a long term process to inspire people to make simple changes on a daily basis leading to a reduction in emissions of 5% over one year.

Your attendance at the following lead-up event will demonstrate corporate Melbourne's unified support for taking action against global warming.

This is a WWF fundraising event. All proceeds will go towards Earth Hour initiatives across the Melbourne industry sectors and the broader community.

Earth Hour in Fiji globally marks the urgency for action on climate change

A similar global effort to Earth Hour took place three years ago with the launch the Kyoto Protocol. This month marks the third anniversary of the Kyoto Protocol.

At the 13^th United Nations climate change conference in Indonesia in December 2007, countries around the world agreed to negotiate, under the Kyoto Protocol, global emissions reductions targets for the period after the year 2012. The target of the Kyoto Protocol is to achieve a 5% reduction in global greenhouse gas emissions based on 1990 levels by the year 2012.

WWF South Pacific Programme (SPPO) Climate Change Campaigner, Ms. Jyotishma Rajan Naicker said: “People argue that current targets under the Protocol are inadequate. However, the Kyoto Protocol, as a legally binding agreement, is an important first step in addressing the root cause of climate change- emissions of gases like carbon dioxide from burning fossil fuels.”

“In order to avoid the dangerous levels of climate change, global emissions must decline by 60-85% by 2050, based on 1990 levels. Many governments do no want to adopt this target as they feel it will impact their fossil fuel based industries negatively,” added Naicker.

“This is however not true. Switching from fossil fuel based industries to renewable energy industries will result in job creation and contribute positively to economies.”

Climate change poses a very serious problem for Pacific Island economies, environment and livelihoods. Pacific Island countries are already experiencing serious impacts of climate change like more frequent droughts and cyclones, higher king tides and subsequent losses in agriculture, infrastructure damage, increased incidence of diseases and greater coastal erosion.

Pacific Island countries, including Fiji, must play very active roles in the United Nations climate change policy negotiations to ensure that negotiations continue to take place under the Kyoto Protocol, are based on science and ensure that the outcomes adequately address Pacific Island priorities.

The Kyoto Protocol’s 3^rd anniversary comes just over a month before a WWF event- Earth Hour. Suva will be the first city in the world to switch off its lights on March 29^th, from 8-9pm, to make a stand on climate change.

Suva city leads global climate campaign

14 February 2008 - Suva will join major cities around the world on March 29 at 8 p.m. when it turns off its lights for one hour – an event known as Earth Hour – to symbolize that governments, businesses and people can make a difference in the fight against global warming.

Earth Hour began last March in Sydney in 2007 when 2.2 million people and 2100 Sydney businesses turned off their lights for one hour. The event is going global this year, and includes more than 20 cities, including Tel Aviv, Copenhagen, Chicago, Toronto, Manila and Tel Aviv.

The Lord Mayor of Suva, Honourable Ratu Peni Volavola said, “We urge our fellow citizens to not waste electricity and to show that our city is committed to the fight against climate change. As a nation of islands we are more vulnerable to rising sea levels, particularly for smaller islands and atolls, where rising sea levels are felt more acutely, causing alarm to so many people.”

The mayor added, “I’m proud that the people of Fiji will join this international event, and I encourage all businesses and residences to participate. Although our emissions are perhaps a “drop in the ocean” compared to those of more developed and bigger countries, our actions will remind them that if we can make this commitment, then it is all the more reason why they also commit themselves to this noble cause. After all, we share the same planet."

Ashwini Prabha, the WWF SPPO Communications Coordinator, said the response from the businesses asked to participate so far has been good. “The businesses we’ve contacted have been very enthusiastic, and we are reaching out to as many companies as we can.”

The event will include a public ceremony in Suva city that will be both informative and entertaining, said Ms. Prabha. “People in Sydney at last year’s Earth Hour really enjoyed themselves,” she said. “Restaurants organised candlelit dinners, people took picnics in places where they could enjoy seeing the spectacle of the city’s lights going off when the event started. We expect the people of Suva will add their own Pacific flair to the event to make it a memorable occasion.”

Suva is the only city in the Pacific Islands Region that is participating in the event, said Ms. Prabha. “Since Suva will be the first city in the world to turn off its lights for the event,” she said, “we expect it will draw good attention from the world’s media, making people around the world more aware about the threats of climate change to Pacific Island countries, as well bring good publicity in general to the city and Fiji.”

She added that Earth Hour 2008 is just a start. “We expect this will be an annual event, with more cities in Fiji, the Pacific and the world joining in. And with the awareness and excitement created, governments, businesses and people will be taking positive steps in everyday life to prevent the climate changes that threaten our islands, our lives, and our identities.”

Dale Withington, the WWF South Pacific Programme Representative said that Earth Hour 2008 will spread the message that tackling climate change is a shared global responsibility.

“Pacific Island countries emit only a very small percentage of such gases globally, but we all have to do our part,” he said. “If people are in a sinking boat, everyone bails the water, some with big buckets, some with cups, and some with their hands. Everyone has to contribute to make a difference. In regards to dealing with the threat of climate change, some of the countries with the largest buckets, so to speak, are not yet doing enough. But events such as Earth Hour create a lot of awareness and enthusiasm and moral pressure for change.”

Dublin, leads the way

Dublin is the first city in Ireland to embrace the spirit of the global campaign of Earth Hour 2008. The Lord Mayor of Dublin, Cllr Paddy Bourke has been instrumental in gaining the support of city council representatives to endorse the campaign. He is now working with the city council officials and the Chamber of Commerce in Dublin, to raise awareness of the campaign and to ensure that the campaign secures support from the business community. It is hoped that this won't be just an exercise for 1 hour here in the City Council but will be the beginning of an ongoing drive to reduce energy consumption into the future

"I am thrilled that as Dublin Lord Mayor, I will be leading our capital city in its I would urge businesses and homes to join in and take part in the campaign.", said the Dublin Lord Mayor. "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.” the Lord Mayor, Paddy Bourke added.

Over on the southside of Dublin county, the Mayor or Cathaoirleach of DunLaoghaire-Rathdown County Council,Denis O'Callaghan has successfully gained the support of local authority officials in working towards Earth Hour 2008.

Peter Coyle has been instrumental in getting the support of Fingal County Council which covers the north and west of the greater Dublin area. And a big thanks to Eamon Tuffy in South Dublin County council.

Whilst Dublin is the leading city here we can’t ignore the progress being made in other towns and cities. Over in the West, thanks to a former Lord Mayor of Galway, Billy Cameron, Galway City council has agreed to “enter into the spirit of the campaign” and the support of the business community is currently being sought.

We are still waiting on updates from Cork and Limerick, where the local authorities have yet to make a final decision on supporting the Earth Hour campaign. Fingers crossed we will have a successful outcome from council meetings on Feb.25^th when Limerick City, Wicklow County and Kildare County will also consider lending their support.

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.

Lights out in Queensland for Earth Hour

Queenslanders are being urged to turn off their lights for one hour next month as part of Earth Hour 2008, the WWF-led climate change initiative that has gained worldwide momentum.

With broad local and state government support, the event is part of a campaign to encourage businesses, communities and individuals to take simple steps to cut greenhouse gas emissions.

WWF-Australia is today asking Queenslanders to support Earth Hour by turning off their lights between 8pm and 9pm on March 29.

“We must increase our efforts in addressing climate change and the time to act is now,” said WWF spokesman Nick Heath.

“Reducing the world’s emissions is a shared responsibility. Each city needs to commit to reducing its carbon output and every single person has a role to play.”

Many of Australia’s most treasured natural wonders are threatened by climate change, including Queensland’s iconic Great Barrier Reef.

“We need ongoing and broad community support to make a real difference to the problem of global warming and to protect special ecosystems such as the Reef,” Mr Heath said.

Last year, more than 2 million Sydney residents joined Earth Hour, resulting in an impressive 10.2 per cent drop in energy usage across the usually glittering CBD.

Mr Heath has challenged Queenslanders to do even better than their southern counterparts in 2008, and thereby show the world how serious they are about being environmentally responsible.

“Earth Hour is not a one-off event,” he said. “Hopefully, it is something that will encourage people to be more conscious about the use of energy on a daily basis.”

Earth Hour 2008 has a distinctly international flavour with 16 cities from around the globe currently signed up, with the possibility of more joining before March 29.

Cities such as Chicago, Copenhagen, Toronto, Manila, Christchurch, Suva and Tel Aviv have joined a number of Australian locations in turning off lights for one hour to tackle climate change head on.

Lord Mayor calls for Earth Hour support

Earth Hour is a simple message of change. Simple actions have huge impacts. Here in Brisbane, we've launched a house-by-house and street-by-street campaign called GreenHeart CitySmart to show people how to make simple, affordable changes in their lives. Across southeast Queensland, 18 Mayors including myself in Brisbane have taken up the Earth Hour pledge. We will be contributing to an almighty blackout stretching more than 200 kilometres north-to-south and 100 kilometres east-to-west. We love our unique lifestyle and we are passionate about
protecting it. Across the globe, the Earth Hour phenomenon will generate a huge Mexican wave stretching far beyond the 60 minutes on 29 March 2008. Earth Hour is a powerful large-scale movement for change. I urge you to take part.

- Brisbane Lord Mayor Campbell Newman

Cities Across Canada Join Earth Hour

TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Feb. 12, 2008) - Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, Vancouver and more than a dozen other municipalities in Ontario have signed on to participate in WWF's global lights out event, Earth Hour. These cities have committed to turning off their lights for one hour at 8 p.m. on March 29, and will encourage residents and businesses within the city to participate and show support for action on climate change.

Municipalities in Ontario that have joined include Oakville, Vaughan, Brampton, Sarnia, Halton Hills, Whitby, Mississauga, and London - with dozens more interested. These Canadian cities are in addition to more than 15 major cities around the world that already joined, including Sydney, Chicago, Copenhagen and Dublin.

Last year, Earth Hour made its successful debut in Sydney, Australia. More than 2 million individuals and businesses participated, resulting in a 10 per cent reduction on the electrical grid and saving 25,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide.

This year, Toronto was the first city to sign-on to WWF's Earth Hour. WWF-Canada's official partners for Earth Hour Toronto are the Toronto Star, Virgin Mobile and the City of Toronto. Individuals can sign-up and find out more information at wwf.ca/EarthHour.

Turning off your lights for one hour will help create awareness and build momentum, but Earth Hour won't stop the climate crisis on its own. To help ensure that Canadians make long-term changes beyond Earth Hour, WWF-Canada has created The Good Life.

The Good Life is an online, action-oriented campaign to enable and encourage Canadians to make changes in their everyday lives to reduce their environmental footprint. This includes a range of actions from easy (like switching to CFL light bulbs) to more complicated (installing an energy efficient furnace) - something for everyone who wants a greener lifestyle.

In less than month since WWF-Canada launched The Good Life, participants have reduced over 5,000,000 kilograms of greenhouse gas emissions, which is the equivalent of taking more than 800 cars off the road. This in turn will show our business and political leaders that Canadians are serious about demanding urgent action to fight climate change. For more information visit wwf.ca.

See which businesses in Toronto have already Signed up

Curious which businesses and organization have already pledged to particpate in Earth Hour? Well, check out the Toronto Star's new online map and see for yourself.

The numbers are growing by the day so make sure you are included and sign up today at http://www.earthhour.org/.

Kylie Kwong celebrates a sustainable Chinese New Year

Sydney, Australia: In preparation for Chinese New Year, Earth Hour ambassador Kylie Kwong has found 10 ways to save electricity in her kitchen.

Earth Hour ambassador, 2008 Chinese New Year Festival Ambassador and leading Sydney chef, Kylie Kwong has identified the kitchen as one of the biggest energy guzzling rooms within the home and therefore, a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions.

“Chinese New Year is a time for families to celebrate with delicious food symbolising prosperity for the coming year. This year, the Year of the Rat, is also an opportunity for us to make a few changes in our lives to live a more environmentally friendly life,” said Kylie.

Kylie is a keen environmentalist and serves only organic and biodynamic produce in her restaurant, Billy Kwong, in Sydney.

The average Australian home produces about half a tonne of greenhouse gas each year from energy used for cooking, according to the Australia Government’s Greenhouse Office.

Kylie’s 10 tips for an energy smart kitchen:

1. Choose a fridge or freezer that’s the right size for you – they operate more efficiently when filled to the correct capacity
2. Keep the fridge temperature between 3 and 40C and the freezer between -15 and -180C
3. To save water in the kitchen, wash vegetables in a small amount of water in sink, rather than under a running tap
4. Avoid using in-sink garbage disposal units – compost instead
5. Avoid gas flames spilling up the sides of pots – turn the burner down to keep flames on the bottom
6. Thaw food in the fresh food compartment of the fridge before cooking
7. If cooking in the oven, avoid opening the door unnecessarily and consider cooking several things at once
8. Make sure your fridge rubber seals are effective by placing a piece of paper in the door and checking if it is held firmly
9. Fan forced ovens generate up to 35 per cent less greenhouse gas emissions than conventional ovens, and more items can be cooked at the same time as the heat is more evenly distributed
10. A family fridge with an extra star on its rating label cuts greenhouse gas emissions by more than 100 kilograms each year. Over its lifetime it will save $200 in running costs
    

Kylie Kwong is getting ready to celebrate her second Earth Hour by holding a candlelit dinner for patrons at Billy Kwong restaurant.

Earth Hour began in Sydney last year and inspired over 2.2 million Sydneysiders and over 2,200 businesses to switch off their lights, highlighting the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

“We want all members of Australia’s Chinese community to get involved in Earth Hour. Climate change is an issue which affects all of us so we need to come together to meet this challenge,” said Andy Ridley, Earth Hour Director.

To sign up to Earth Hour visit www.earthhour.org

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

* A photograph of Kylie Kwong is available upon request.

Australia Day: Aussie icons support Earth Hour

Sydney, Australia: In the lead up to Australia Day, some of the nations best loved musicians
and actors have banded together to urge Australians to consider the impacts of climate
change on our natural icons such as Kakadu and the Great Barrier Reef, and to support
Earth Hour – Australia’s biggest climate change initiative.

Many of Australia’s most treasured natural icons are threatened by climate change and it is
important on this Australia Day to consider how people can protect our precious
environment, says WWF-Australia.

Earth Hour ambassadors Ben Lee, Isabel Lucas, Tex Perkins, Shane Wakelin and Brielle
Davis are some of the Aussie personalities who are supporting the campaign. Earth Hour
aims to encourage all Australians to turn off their lights for one hour on March 29, 2008 and
make a pledge to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions on an ongoing basis.

Earth Hour began in Sydney last year and inspired over 2.2 million Sydneysiders and over
2,100 businesses to switch off their lights, highlighting the need to reduce greenhouse gas
emissions.

“We want all members of the community – young and old – to get involved in Earth Hour.
Climate change is an issue which affects all of us so we need to come together to meet this
challenge,” said Andy Ridley, Earth Hour Director.

To sign up to Earth Hour visit www.earthhour.org

Ben Lee, singer/song writer and Earth Hour ambassador said:

"Australia is a wonderful country with a rich and complex heritage. I'm proud to be from a
country that is capable of looking at itself with insight, honesty and a sense of humour. For
this reason, Earth Hour has a uniquely Australian feel. It's about seeing a problem that needs
to be dealt with, and taking some simple and enjoyable steps, to begin getting our planet to a
better place."

Isabel Lucas, actress/environmental campaigner and Earth Hour ambassador said:

“Australia Day offers us a chance to reflect and appreciate how lucky we are to live here. I'm
proud to call myself Australian and to call a country home that has one of the most beautiful
environments I’ve seen. A generation ago people with concerns about the environment and
nature were often labelled greenies and radicals, today these issues are accepted by the
mainstream as essential to our survival, therefore supporting organisations like WWF is
really important.”

Brielle Davis, singer and Earth Hour ambassador said:

“Australia Day is a day when all Australians, irrespective of cultural, ethnic or religious
differences can come together and truly celebrate our good fortune. We live in a wonderful
country, however we must realise that if we are going to celebrate Australia Day, if we are
going to be proud to live in such a beautiful nation then we must do all that we can to
preserve it. With events like Earth Hour advancing I feel it is extremely important for people
to realise exactly what they can do to play their part.”

Shane Wakelin, AFL player and Earth Hour ambassador said:

"Australia Day is a celebration of what makes our great country so truly unique – barbeques,
beaches, beers and family. Let’s carry on this community spirit by coming together for Earth
Hour 2008, which presents a wonderful opportunity to influence attitudes on climate change
and the environment for many generations to come".

Tex Perkins singer/Aussie icon and Earth Hour ambassador said:

“Australia has the most unique environment of any country in the world. I’ve been around the
world and nowhere comes close to us for clean air, fresh water, beautiful beaches, cute
cuddly animals, and the most deadly spiders, snakes and sea creatures on the planet. Let’s
keep it that way this Australia Day.”




Images of Kakadu, the Great Barrier Reef and Earth Hour ambassadors are available
on request.

For more information contact:

Kath Eggleston, WWF-Australia Press Office, +61 2 8202 1294 / 0408 408 562 keggleston@wwf.org.au

The following cities will take part in Earth Hour 2008:
Copenhagen in Denmark, Aarhus in Denmark, Aalborg in Denmark, Odense in Denmark, Manila in the Philippines, Suva in Fiji, Chicago in the USA, Tel Aviv in Israel, Toronto in Canada, Portland in the USA, Christchurch in New Zealand, Adelaide, Melbourne, Canberra, Brisbane and Sydney.