Residents across Edinburgh are being encouraged to join millions across the globe in switching off their lights this Saturday for World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Earth Hour 2012.
Iconic landmarks across the city, such as the Scott Monument, the Burns Monument and Edinburgh Castle are taking part in the graphic demonstration of support for people and wildlife threatened by climate change.
The City of Edinburgh Council is encouraging people to take part in Earth Hour and turn off their lights for 60 minutes at 20.30 tomorrow. A photo competition has also been set up for individuals, communities and businesses to share their pictures of what they are doing across Edinburgh to reduce the effects of climate change.
Earth hour is taking place tomorrow at 8.30pm
Photos can be uploaded to the Council’s Earth Hour flickr website and will see the entrants entered into a prize draw, where they can win one of three £50 Scotmid vouchers. The competition runs from until Friday 13 April 2012.
WWF is also encouraging community groups and local organisations to join in the fun by taking part in activities such as star-gazing, torch-lit nature walks, candle-lit suppers or pub-quizzes.
Cllr Jenny Dawe, Leader of Edinburgh Council said: “I am delighted that Edinburgh is marking WWF’s Earth Hour. This year promises to be better than ever and will send out a bold visual message that we all must take action to tackle climate change. The Council takes tackling climate change very seriously, recognising that small actions make big differences. I would encourage everyone to play their part and turn off lights to mark this global event.”
Dr Richard Dixon, Director of WWF Scotland said: “It is great news the City of Edinburgh Council has given its backing once again to WWF’s Earth Hour 2012. Already it’s looking to be another great year with communities up and down the country joining together with others from around the world in a dramatic hour of action on climate change.
“WWF’s Earth Hour is a simple way for people to show their support for strong action on climate change. Edinburgh Council’s decision to join WWF’s Earth Hour highlights their commitment to this issue. We hope lots of individuals, community groups and local organisations feel inspired to take part too.”
