27 March 2012

University to power down for Earth Hour

The University of Dundee is to demonstrate its commitment to cutting carbon emissions by turning the lights off across the campus as part of the global Earth Hour event next weekend.

The Library & Learning Centre, Dundee University Students Association, Wellcome Trust Building and James Black Centre are among the University buildings that will join the likes of the London Eye, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Caesar's Palace and Edinburgh Castle in powering down in order to highlight environmental concerns.

The symbolic switch off is organised by the World Wildlife Fund, and 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, 31st March.

The University will do its bit by turning off all unnecessary lighting, and providing advice to staff and students about how to avoid wasting energy. 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, "Last year's switch-off proved a great success and we are happy to once again be taking part 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. There will be other building in Dundee powering down for the hour, and it is fantastic that we will be joining together with people across the world for this event.

"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