Bay Area Lights Go Out As World Observes Earth Hour
SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS/AP) – Bay Area bridges, high-rises and landmarks go dark for an hour Saturday evening to mark Earth Hour.
The annual global event is observed around the world to raise awareness about climate change.
Because Earth Hour is from 8:30-9:30 p.m. regardless of the time zone, the blackout has virtually rolled around the globe every last Saturday in March, since 2007.
The Golden Gate Bridge spokesperson Ria Clemmons said they will turn off all non-essential lights on the span to highlight the importance of energy conservation.
"We use energy efficient light bulbs … so this I just one more way in which we are part of the discussion about how we can save our land's resources." She said they also conserve by using reclaimed water for landscaping and to wash the roadway.
Ghirardelli Square hosts a free event called #GoDark, so people can be there when lights the iconic sign go out. There will be a candlelit yoga session, blind tastings of chocolate and live acoustic music. Thousands are expected to attend.
The World Wildlife Fund started the movement.
"We care about climate change and we want action," said the organization's vice-president, Lou Leonard. "It's not about a particular country, it's actually about everybody."
Leonard said the hour is intended to encourage people to make smarter energy choices, like bringing renewable electricity into their homes.
Across the globe in Paris, the Eiffel Tower went dark briefly, to mark Earth Hour. The five-minute dark-out Saturday night was a symbolic gesture in the City of Light. It was not possible to observe the entire hour, due to safety reasons.
France has been preparing for months to host an international climate conference in Paris at the end of the year, pressing nations to set attainable goals for reducing greenhouse gases and mobilizing international finances to fight climate change.
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