Earth Hour

Council buildings will plunge into darkness for one hour as part of global climate change campaign

Landmark buildings in Swale are to plunge into darkness next month as the borough shows its commitment to tackling climate change.

The blackout will form part of the worldwide Earth Hour, where iconic buildings, historical sites and ordinary homes will switch out the lights for 60 minutes on Saturday, March 31, at 8.30pm.

The global movement looks to raise awareness of climate change.

Famous structures such as the Empire State Building in New York, Sydney Opera House, Buckingham Palace and the Eiffel Tower in Paris have all flipped their switches in the past for the annual event.

Since 2009 Swale Borough Council has taken part and this year is no different.

All non-essential lights in Swale House, the Gateway, Sheerness and the Alexander Centre in Faversham will be switched off.

Residents and businesses are also being encouraged to join in the worldwide event and turn off all non-essential lights for an hour.

Swale Borough Council leader Cllr Andrew Bowles said the council was pleased to be taking part in Earth Hour for the fourth year in a row.

“If everyone in Swale turns out all their non-essential lights in their homes and workplaces for just one hour it will be one small step in symbolising what can be achieved to tackle the issues of climate change,” he said.

“Being part of the planet coming together and moving forward to achieve a cleaner, greener future. We have long campaigned and worked towards a cleaner, greener Swale.”

Environmental group the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) helped initiate Earth Hour in Sydney in 2007 and it has since grown to engage millions of people around the globe.

Swale council said households could help make a bold statement in the largest display of environmental action and be part of the global community connecting for a common purpose.

Climate change officer at the council Janet Hill said: “Switching off lights for one hour – Earth Hour – provides us with a chance in taking a crucial step in wanting lasting and effective results.

“We want as many residents as possible to embrace the true spirit of this event and ultimately commit to reducing our consumption of power, water and other critical resources.”