23 March 2011

Lights to go off for Earth Hour

The lights will be turned off at buildings across the University of Dundee campus on Saturday night as part of the global Earth Hour event.

The Wellcome Trust Building, Library & Learning Centre and Dundee University Students Association will join the likes of Sydney Harbour Bridge, Caesar’s Palace, Las Vegas and Edinburgh Castle in powering down in order to highlight environmental concerns.

Organised by the World Wildlife Fund, Earth Hour is the world’s largest display of hope for a bright future. Hundreds of millions of people across the world will switch off their lights in a massive, co-ordinated demonstration of their concern about tackling climate change and protecting the natural world from 8.30-9.30pm on Saturday, 26th March.

All unnecessary lighting at the University buildings will be turned off, and it has been suggested to students and staff that if necessary they could make their way around using wind up torches. Stairs and fire exits will remain lit to ensure the buildings remain health and safety compliant.

Trudy Cunningham, Environment & Sustainability Officer at the University, said, 'We are happy to take part again in WWF's Earth Hour. The event is a global, symbolic gesture that shows governments that people are concerned about climate change and our reliance on finite fossil fuel as our main energy source.

'The fact some of the world’s most iconic buildings are taking part really helps to promote this event, and we are delighted to be doing our bit in Dundee. The Wellcome Trust Building, DUSA and Library are the main occupied buildings on Saturday nights and so the fact they will be turning their lights off will make a big difference.'

Individuals, families, businesses, community groups and other organisations can become involved in this global event. Visit www.wwfscotland.org.uk/earthhour to find out more and register to take part.

For media enquiries contact:
Grant Hill
Press Officer
University of Dundee
Nethergate, Dundee, DD1 4HN
TEL: 01382 384768
E-MAIL: g.hill@dundee.ac.uk
MOBILE: 07854 953277