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Tue, 26 Mar 2019
This Saturday, join the town and switch off your lights and other electronics in support of global efforts to preserve nature and take action on climate change. The town will turn off all non-essential lights and marquee signs from 8:30-9:30 p.m. at town facilities and parking lots where possible without compromising public safety or interfering with services.
“Every action we take – big or small – to conserve energy makes a positive difference on our community and the environment,” said Mayor Rob Burton. “On behalf of Council, I want to thank all of our residents for their contribution not only during Earth Hour, but also throughout the year. We encourage residents to continue finding ways to reduce their energy use in their daily lives.”
Last year, businesses, residents and the town reduced energy consumption by 3.2 percent (5.9 MegaWatts MW), the equivalent of turning off 98,000 60-watt light bulbs. Over the last 11 years we have saved a total of 91 MW, the equivalent of turning off 1.5 million 60-watt light bulbs.
Turning off your lights is an easy way to get involved, but you can also turn down the thermostat, and switch off the TV, microwave and computer. Instead, enjoy an unplugged hour with a candlelight dinner, board games by flashlight, or a stargazing walk. Share your Earth Hour activity on Facebook or Twitter with #connect2earth.
Earth Hour is a global movement created by the World Wildlife Fund. This year the theme of Earth Hour is celebrating our connections to nature. Starting as a symbolic lights-out event in Sydney in 2007, Earth Hour is now the world's largest grassroots movement for the environment, inspiring millions of people to take action for our planet and nature. Visit earthhour.org to learn more.
Visit our Energy Conservation page to learn more about the many ongoing town-led environmental initiatives, including Oakville’s Community Energy Plan.