Aberdeen takes part in global celebration

29 February 2016

Floodlights are to be switched off at several local landmarks as Aberdeen takes part in Climate Week and the global movement Earth Hour.

WWF is celebrating the 10 year anniversary of the initiative which encourages individuals and organisations around the world to switch of their lights at a set time to raise awareness of climate change and environmental protection. Aberdeen is to show its support with switch offs taking place at Aberdeen City Council and Robert Gordon University buildings.

The lights will go out as the switch off takes place on Saturday 19 March 2016 at 8.30pm – 9.30pm.

In addition to the switch off, a programme of events is taking place from Saturday 12 March, which include:

Aberdeen City Council Communities, Housing and Infrastructure convener Councillor Neil Cooney said: "We can take these basic steps to help save our environment – I strongly encourage citizens of Aberdeen and local businesses to show their support either by attending the events taking place or simply switching off their lights.

"It has been great to see so many partner organisations working together to raise awareness of climate change through Earth Hour and Climate Week in Aberdeen."

Aberdeen City Council has gained Super Local Authority status for 2016 for work with partners on Earth Hour and Climate Week events.

The full programme and more information on Earth Hour can be accessed through the website www.aberdeencity.gov.uk/earthhour, and programme details for Climate Week and additional climate change information may be found at www.ClimateWeekAberdeen.org.

Individuals and organisations can take part in Earth Hour by switching off lights, planning events, having a candlelit dinner and celebrating in their own way. Please sign up to Earth Hour online to show your support and to share how you are celebrating. For more information visit the Earth Hour website www.wwfscotland.org.uk/earthhour.