Earth Hour—Go dark for the planet

The county is invited to join a worldwide public environmental action event called Earth Hour.

At 8:30 p.m. Saturday, March 31, millions of people around the globe will switch off the lights of their homes and businesses for one hour to acknowledge a commitment to go actions that benefit the planet in the year ahead.

Linda Rudick, member of Keep Brunswick County Beautiful, is coordinating local Earth Hour efforts.

“Earth Hour started in 2007 in Australia,” Rudick said. “The group wanted to do something to observe they were committed to being good to the earth.”

When Rudick first began spreading the word in Brunswick County, she didn’t know how many people would be interested. Last summer the Brunswick County Board of Commissioners approved a proclamation for Earth Hour. In February Shallotte passed a resolution in favor of the event.

“Calabash is planning a candlelight vigil during Earth Hour where people can observe the event and have the opportunity to pledge an action for Earth Hour,” Rudick said.

The towns of Caswell Beach, Carolina Shores, Sunset Beach, St. James, Southport, Sandy Creek and Boiling Spring Lakes have all agreed to show support. Rudick anticipates additional towns will support the event as it draws near.

She has even received support from area businesses that have agreed to distribute information and/or participate.

“There has been much positive feedback from communities within the county,” Rudick said. “I am hoping it will grow even more next year.”

Rudick explained it is easy to observe Earth Hour. For one hour turn off all unnecessary lights and electronics. She said the observance of Earth Hour has been noted by the turning off of such notable landmarks as the Eiffel Tower, the Taj Mahal and Parliament.

“We don’t have anything as recognizable as that in Brunswick County but we have homes and businesses,” Rudick said.

Anyone wanting to take Earth Hour a step farther and make a pledge is encouraged to do so by signing up at www.earthhour.org. It is not necessary to sign up to participate, just turn off your lights.

Rachel Johnsonis a staff writer at The Brunswick Beacon. Reach her at 754-6890 or rjohnson@brunswickbeacon.com.