Public buildings go dark to mark Earth Hour

People urged to conserve energy to prevent degradation of environment

LAHORE: Lights were switched off at major public buildings in the city from 8:30pm to 9:30pm in connection with the Earth Hour observed across the globe to raise awareness about the need to prevent environmental degradation.



These buildings included the Town Hall, the district courts, the General Post Office, the Chief Minister’s Secretariat, the Assembly Chambers and the Badshahi Masjid.The Worldwide Fund for Nature (WWF) Pakistan and the Qarshi Industries held an event in the city where noted actors, musicians and fashion designers turned up to raise awareness about the cause. These included WWF-Pakistan director general Hammad Naqi Khan said Pakistan was among the 10 countries worst hit by climate change. “Switching off unnecessary lights for one hour is a gesture. We should pledge to do everything in our power to reduce our carbon footprint. Our individual actions complement collective efforts for protection of environment,” he said.

National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq’s video message to the nation was also played at the event. He said that the National Assembly had fulfilled its commitment made last year to go green by switching to the use of solar energy to supply power to its premises.  “It should be a proud moment for all of us. Our national assembly building is the first in the world to be powered by solar energy,” he said. He said collective efforts were needed to tackle climate change impacts.



The event featured a candle lit vigil, lighting of sky lanterns and a performing arts show. This year is the 10th in a row since Earth Hour is being observed at a global level to raise awareness about the need to protect environment.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 20^th, 2016.