More people switch off for Earth Hour
Homes, hotels and businesses across Bermuda were plunged into darkness to support Earth Hour’s global stand against climate change.An “increased number” of people did their bit for the environment by switching off their non-essential lights from 8.30pm to 9.30pm on Saturday.Scores of households were joined in darkness by the Fairmont Southampton Resort, the Fairmont Hamilton Princess Hotel, City Hall, Hamilton Bus Terminal, ACE Bermuda, HSBC Bermuda, Gibbons Company and the Washington Mall.Carolyn Moss, executive administrator at environmental group Greenrock, said Earth Hour had been a huge success, with Bermuda being among 130 countries taking part.She said: “We are pleased with this year’s level of participation. Property managers really stepped up to the plate and made an extra effort in some cases people came in especially to turn off lights.“This effort goes to show that people are aware of why Earth Hour is important and a willingness to be a part of a global movement.”It was the third year Greenrock had promoted Earth Hour in Bermuda, working alongside the Corporation of Hamilton, Government and Belco.But it was the first year they launched the event with a public gathering on the steps of City Hall. This event early on Saturday night saw the crowd being entertained by fire spinners, music and limbo dancers.This year’s Earth Hour theme was ‘Beyond the Hour’ (60+) which challenged people to think about what else they will do to change their day-to-day actions once the lights were turned back on.Ms Moss said: “Greenrock feels it is important to mark this event, not only for its symbolism, but because it demonstrates a commitment to an action. If everyone in Bermuda switched lights off for an hour, then imagine what else is possible?“It’s a real opportunity for all of us to show leadership on environmental solutions through our actions and to use Earth Hour as a platform.”Greenrock will reveal this year’s participation levels at a press conference next month.