UM-Flint to Join Earth Hour Observance

An event that focuses on making a positive impact on climate change is expecting a billion people around the globe to participate, including the University of Michigan-Flint campus. Earth Hour 2009 is being billed as the largest climate event in history. On March 28, 2009 at 8:30 p.m. people in hundreds of cities around the world are being asked to make a bold statement about their concern about climate change by simply turning off their lights one hour.

According to one of the main supporter of the event, the World Wildlife Fund, 250 cities in 74 countries have already agreed to take part. The list includes: Atlanta, Chicago, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Miami, and Nashville with more signing up every day. Around the world cities like Moscow, Hong Kong, Mumbai, Shanghai and Mexico City will turn out their lights in support.

"By simply turning off non-essential lighting for one hour on campus and in our own homes, we will join tens of millions of concerned citizens throughout the world in calling for action to save our planet for future generations," said UM-Flint Assistant Vice Chancellor Renee Zientek.

Campus participation will include:

-Facilities Management and Campus Safety have committed to turning off exterior building signage
-Residential students have committed to turning off the lights in their suites
-Hundreds of Faculty, Staff, Students, and Alumni have committed to turning off the lights in their homes