Turn off lights for 1 hour, help save the Earth

Goal to save energy, raise awareness

PORTSMOUTH — Flip off the switch. Everyone's doing it — everyone in the world that is.

At 8 p.m. on Saturday, March 29, millions of people are asked to participate in "Earth Hour." Earth Hour is a global event organized by the World Wildlife Fund that asks communities and businesses to turn off the lights for one hour to reduce energy use and heighten awareness of everyone's carbon footprint.

State Rep. Susan Kepner, D-Hampton, a member of the Resources, Recreation and Development Committee, heartily endorsed the event.

"So much has been said about energy use that this would be a great thing for the local communities," said Kepner. "Imagine dinner by candle light at the Galley Hatch — with obvious safety lighting — what a great PR project for businesses to do."

According to WWF spokeswoman Leslie Aun, the event is ultimately meant to further awareness of environmental issues and let everyone know that they can contribute to saving the earth.

"The idea is less about saving energy and more about empowering individuals. It's really more symbolic," said Aun.

From 8 to 9 p.m., everyone who participates will dim the lights and due to the difference in time zones this should cause a cascade effect.

According to Aun, there are 25 cities around the world on six continents that have planned on switching off. Four U.S. cities that are participating in the lights out wave include Chicago, Atlanta, Phoenix and San Francisco.