Calls for Derry to ‘Embrace the Dark Side’ in support for annual 'Earth Hour'

SDLP Cllr Angela Dobbins has called for Derry people to 'Emrace the Dark Side' and show more support for the annual ‘Earth Hour', a global initiative in energy efficiency. She said: “Earth Hour is a global movement which promotes awareness of climate change. The annual event which began in Sydney in 2007 has now expanded to over 150 countries and 7,000 cities worldwide and I am delighted that, as a result of proposals I tabled, Derry City and Strabane District Council recognises the importance of Earth Hour in raising awareness of climate change and has participated in the event ever since. Our council has taken further steps by examining ways of improving energy efficiency to minimise costs to ratepayers and to reduce our carbon footprint. “Earth Hour is a yearly event that encourages individuals, communities, households and businesses to turn off their non-essential lights for one hour as a symbol of their commitment to our planet. “In essence, it is ‘lights out’ in all Council-owned facilities for 1 hour beginning at 8.30pm on Saturday March 24th. The Guildhall Clock and the Council offices will be shrouded in darkness. It may be a small gesture, but the substantive issue is how we as a council embrace the concept of Earth Hour and use it to improve our energy efficiency in a bid to reduce our carbon footprint and minimise our energy bills. “I am asking that other businesses and householders do the same; knock off the television – knock off the computer/iPad etc. just for one hour. “Over the years we have had presentations to the Environment committee, from schools, in particular Thornhill College, promoting their contributions towards the environment. These young ladies were very tuned in to the issues involving our carbon footprint and the consequences for their futures. More and more of our primary schools are attaining the Eco Schools green flag, proving that our children are in step with environmental issues. “In these times of spiralling and erratic energy costs we should not only embrace the potential of green energy in this region but also take the lead in promoting energy efficiency within our entire communities.”