On Saturday, 26 March between 8.30pm and 9.30pm, Wollongong City Council and the Illawarra Business Chamber (IBC) are calling on businesses, schools and community members to turn off all non-essential electricity.
This year, as part of Earth Hour, Council is also encouraging schools and businesses to register to participate in Earth Hour, said Wollongong City Council’s Director Planning and Environment, Andrew Carfield. Council is asking businesses and schools who register to collect some information relating to their energy savings which will help Council calculate total savings within the Wollongong Local Government Area.
CEO of the IBC, Greg Fisher said, “We are delighted to be supporting this initiative which allows individuals and businesses to take action against climate change and also to raise awareness about the opportunities within business to make energy savings.”
Local business Apathco is also supportive of Earth Hour. Apathco provide clients with an integrated approach to sustainability within their business. Company Director, Todd Heslin said, ”We are passionate about linking sustainable design, operation and organisational culture to business strategy.”
Apathco Group was recognised as an outstanding business in 2009, winning the Integral Energy Illawarra Small Business of the Year award and was commended as a finalist for the Business Sustainability award. As proud members of the Illawarra Business Chamber, the Apathco Directors continue to reach out to other businesses in the local region to passionately discuss the benefits of sustainability in business.
RDA Illawarra, which is currently focused on the delivery of the Green Jobs Plan, has worked with Apathco on sustainable initiatives and has also put their support behind Earth Hour. Katrina Skellern, Green Jobs Project Manager said, “The more businesses and members of the community, the more of an impact this event can have.”
Earth Hour started in 2007 in Sydney. Organised by the World Wildlife Fund, it’s an opportunity for individuals, schools and businesses to take action against climate change.
To register your school or business email rise&shine@wollongong.nsw.gov.au or call 4227 7111.
Individuals can register on the Earth Hour website at www.earthhour.org