Hit the switch for Earth Hour

Residents and businesses in Dubai are encouraged to 'switch off' for Earth Hour

‘Hit the switch’ is the message for this weekend as Dubai’s businesses and residents are encouraged to participate in the fourth annual Earth Hour.

Organised by the WWF, Earth Hour is designed to raise awareness about global climate change and is expected to see more than a billion people in almost 130 countries shut off their lights between 8.30pm and 9.30pm on Saturday.

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"We are encouraging Dubai organisations and their staff to join Earth Hour and reduce their consumption of electricity throughout the year.” Said Rami Halawani, Director, Marketing and Corporate Communication, Dubai Chamber.

“By doing so, they will save money and play a role in helping the country address energy challenges and climate change. That is why Dubai Chamber supports Earth Hour and other initiatives that encourage responsible practices and make our communities a better place to live and work in."

Taking the lead, the Chamber will be participating in Earth Hour in three main ways. Firstly, it will be switching off air conditioning and other non-essential lighting at its head office. Secondly, it is promoting Earth Hour with activities throughout the month, encouraging staff to save energy and help protect the environment each and every day.

Thirdly, the Chamber will be promoting participation among the business community, and encouraging others to benefit their organizations and the environment by saving energy.

Halawani further stressed that simple measures, such as reducing air-conditioning or using energy efficient light bulbs, can significantly lower electricity costs. According to the Chamber, these measures enabled the Dubai Chamber to reduce the energy consumption of its head office by 47 per cent, saving around Dhs5.5m at no additional expense over a decade, he said.