Earth Hour is Every Hour for Mississauga

The City of Mississauga is switching off its lights for Earth Hour on Saturday, March 29 at 8:30 p.m. to encourage residents to take green actions year round.

“Here at the City, Earth Hour is every hour,” said Ward 11 Councillor George Carlson, chair of Mississauga’s Environmental Advisory Committee. “Participating in this lights-off initiative is a reminder that we’re taking steps to conserve energy all year long. By setting an example ourselves, we hope to encourage others in the community to do the same.”

“The City’s environmental master plan is in action year round,” said Brenda Osborne, director, Environment Division.  “The City’s conservation efforts and programs support action on climate change. From being one of the first Canadian cities to have a city-wide LED streetlight program to partnering with local municipalities on the Peel Climate Change Strategy, doing business in a sustainable way is a priority.”

“As Earth Hour has evolved, it’s less about measuring our electricity reduction during the dedicated hour and more about reduced energy use year round,” said Karen Ras, director, Corporate Relations, Enersource. “It’s about working together to help residents make more environmentally conscious choices every day.”

The City has participated in every Earth Hour since the annual event went global in 2008. On March 29, energy consumption and non-essential lights in City facilities will be turned off for the hour. This year, instead of measuring the per cent of energy reduced during the dedicated hour, the City is switching its focus to promoting green actions that residents can take year round. In addition to other City environmental initiatives, Mississauga has partnered with Enersource Corporation and Partners in Project Green to promote everyday tips.

To stay informed about Mississauga’s environmental initiatives and key events throughout the year, subscribe to the Mississauga Living Green blog at mississauga.ca/livinggreen and follow us on Twitter: @MiLivingGreen