Posted on 03/27/2009, 1:20 pm, by mySteinbach

Manitobans are encouraged to join communities around the world in celebrating international Earth Hour 2009, Science, Technology, Energy and Mines Minister Jim Rondeau said.
 
Earth Hour is a campaign to turn off lights for one hour at 8:30 p.m. Saturday, March 28, as a symbol of taking action against climate change.
 
“Turning off lights for one hour won’t put an end to our climate change problems but it demonstrates individual action is important,” said Rondeau.  “Don’t stop at turning off lights.  Consider reducing your carbon footprint even more by walking, taking a bus or unplugging unused electrical appliances.”
 
“Earth Hour demonstrates how we can all do something individually and collectively to battle climate change,” said Infrastructure and Transportation Minister Ron Lemieux. “Earth Hour will raise awareness and understanding of how a community can live in a more sustainable way.”
 
Rondeau noted that when Manitobans save energy on lighting, they free up clean hydroelectrical power for export.  This clean power will replace fossil fuels in other jurisdictions.
 
Originating in Sydney, Australia, in 2007, the Earth Hour campaign has since gained global attention.
 
The Manitoba government will turn off interior lights in designated provincial buildings across the province for Earth Hour.
 
Government staff have been asked to turn off their computer monitors and lights before leaving work today. Emergency lighting and security systems will remain on as normal.
 
More information can be found at www.earthhour.org where individuals can sign up to participate at home.
 
Manitobans are encouraged to switch their lights to energy-efficient bulbs and turn off lights when leaving a room as a way to make Earth Hour a part of their everyday lives.