BENDIGO’S commitment to World Earth Hour seems to have dimmed.
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Businesses and households in 152 countries around the world will turn off their lights tonight at 8.30pm for an hour to show their commitment to saving energy.
Community events have been organised around Australia, including a street festival in Sydney, a concert in Perth and bushwalks in Canberra.
Australian landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House and Melbourne’s Arts Centre will be turned green to commemorate the event.
But it seemed Bendigo had lost the message of Earth Hour, with no community events scheduled in the city.
Sacred Heart Cathedral would also not participate, with their outside lights on as normal.
City of Greater Bendigo chief executive Craig Niemann said the council had decided not to participate in Earth Hour for the past two years.
“We decided that our resources are better focused on other environmental events such as Clean Up Australia day and National Tree Planting day because they provide significant benefits for our community and have a higher participation rate,” he said.
“We continually review the programs we support each year and may consider participating in future Earth Hour events.”
Bendigo Sustainability Group (BSG) president David Brownhill said he only knew of private parties organised to mark Earth Hour.
He said BSG hoped to organise a large-scale event for next year’s hour.
Mr Brownhill said he hoped individuals would still get on board and turn off their lights come 8.30pm.
If you or your family is taking part in Earth Hour, send your pics to cos@bendigoadvertiser.com.au