TURN YOUR LIGHTS OUT, SATURDAY, MARCH 23

MANITOBANS ENCOURAGED TO TURN OUT THE LIGHTS,
JOIN THE WORLD IN INTERNATIONAL EARTH HOUR 2013:  GORD MACKINTOSH

                           


Manitobans are asked to join individuals, organizations and communities around the world in celebrating International Earth Hour 2013, Conservation and Water Stewardship Minister Gord Mackintosh said today.

To see the official video, click here.

"Turning off the lights for one hour is a small step but it symbolizes the simple changes we can make to green our lifestyle," said Mackintosh.  "When enough people make these small changes, we collectively have a large effect in the fight against climate change."

Manitobans are encouraged to turn off the lights for one hour tomorrow from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m. as a symbol of taking action against climate change.

The minister noted the province is committed to demonstrating green leadership in government as part of Tomorrow Now - Manitoba's Green Plan, the province's eight-year strategic plan for protecting the environment while ensuring a strong economy.

Government offices will be participating in the initiative by turning off interior lights in both urban and rural provincial buildings.  Provincial employees are also being asked to turn off computer monitors and lights in the workplace before leaving work at the end of the week.

"Government must set an example to reduce the effects of climate change and taking part in an initiative like this is an important part of showing green leadership," said Mackintosh.  "We can all make a difference through small actions like unplugging unused electrical appliances, switching off lights when leaving a room or parking the car and using alternative transportation to get to work."

More information can be found at www.wwf.ca/earthhour/, where individuals can sign up to participate at home.  For more information on TomorrowNow - Manitoba's Green Plan, visit:
www.gov.mb.ca/conservation/tomorrownowgreenplan/.

- Submitted by Karla W.