Switching off global warming

Earth Hour 2009 aims to inspire governments, individuals and businesses worldwide to take action against global warming. The campaign asks participants to turn off their lights for one hour on 28 March, 2009 from 8.30pm - 9.30pm as a show of world unity against global warming.

In 2008, 50 million people in 35 countries switched off their lights for one hour. This year's event aims to exceed this number with one billion people in more than 1000 cities from business, government and the community turning off lights. The message is aimed at world leaders participating in the Copenhagen Climate Change Conference in December 2009 that a stronger commitment is needed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions for the short and long term benefit of the planet.

Iconic buildings and landmarks in Africa, Europe, Asia-Pacific, the Middle East and The Americas will turn off their lights. Cities that have already signed up include: Sydney (Australia), London (UK), Rome (Italy), Dubai (UAE), Los Angeles (USA) and Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) among others.

To sign up for Earth Hour 2009 visit www.earthhour.org.za.