On Saturday 26 March between 8.30pm and 9.30pm, Wollongong City Council is 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.

“We’re encouraging schools to participate in Earth Hour on Friday 25 March by turning off all non-essential power sources for 1 hour.”

“For businesses this might mean turning off computers, printers and photocopiers at the power point, rather than leaving them on standby for the weekend. Restaurants, bars and cafés could hold candle light dinners to minimize power usage.”

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.

Council is asking businesses and schools who register to collect some information relating to their energy savings.  This will help us calculate total savings within the Wollongong Local Government Area.

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