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Lights off for action
28/03/2009
The Scottish Government will join millions across the world in switching off lights for one hour from 8.30pm tonight to mark Earth Hour in a gesture of support for action on climate change.
Lights will be turned off in all main Government buildings, although essential lighting will remain on across the estate for health and safety reasons.
Minister for Environment Roseanna Cunningham said:
"The Scottish Government is delighted to back Earth Hour 2009, an initiative which has a truly global impact.
"Creating a cleaner, greener Scotland is one of this Government's priorities. We are committed to leading by example and to encouraging others in the public sector to do the same.
"Our Climate Change Bill aims to give Scotland the most ambitious climate change targets in the world, while our Go Greener campaign urges the public to do their bit for the environment. There are also measures the Scottish Government is taking to reduce its own carbon footprint, and achieve the ambitious targets we have set ourselves as an organisation.
"Earth Hour provides an opportunity to demonstrate our commitment in a simple yet effective way. And I will personally be taking part by switching my lights off for an hour on March 28."
Permanent Secretary Sir John Elvidge said:
"I am personally committed to the Scottish Government playing its part in creating a Greener Scotland, and to leading by example. While there are many things we are doing to improve our own performance - such as developing a Carbon Management Plan and promoting sustainable business travel - we all need to be environmentally aware and responsible in our day-to-day working practices.
"Alongside the long term measures we are taking, Earth Hour provides an opportunity to demonstrate in a simple but effective way, our commitment to this agenda."
Director of WWF Scotland Dr Richard Dixon welcomed the Scottish Government's support for Earth Hour:
"By supporting the initiative, the Scottish Government has signalled its commitment to taking action on environmental issues."