Take Action Burlington

Earth Hour, an initiative of the World Wildlife Fund, began in Sydney, Australia in 2007 with over two million residents symbolically turning their lights off for one hour in support of climate change awareness. The following year, 35 countries participated in the event and in 2015 this grew to 172 countries. Many countries have been inspired by Earth Hour to carry out longer term initiatives including legislative changes.

This year, Earth Hour will take place on Saturday, March 19 at 8:30 p.m. local time.

 

What is the City of Burlington doing during Earth Hour?

Where possible, we will turn off, unplug or reduce the use of the following:

• Lighting where facilities are not operational (some lights are required to be left on for safety and fire code reasons)

• Arena refrigeration plants (compressors, condensers, brine pumps, etc.)

• Exhaust fans/air handlers and heaters in viewing stands

Please note that streetlights and traffic control signals will continue to operate as normal.

 

What is the City of Burlington doing year round?

• Implementing the corporate and community energy plans with annual reports to council

• Publically reporting annual energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions

• Engaging staff in taking ownership of energy use and developing a culture of conservation

• Raising awareness about our programs and initiatives through our environment webpage and Take Action Burlington blog.

 

What can you do?

• Download Burlington Hydro’s Energy Conservation Handbook which has over 100 tips to conserve energy and save money.

• View Union Gas’ tips to reduce heating and hot water costs.

• Did you know that while transportation accounts for 30 % of the energy used in Burlington, it represents 40 % of the greenhouse gas emissions? Consider leaving your vehicle at home for trips under five kilometres and walk or cycle where possible.

• Phantom or standby power can account for up to 15 % of your annual home electricity consumption? What is phantom power? It’s the energy that is used even when your devices are turned off but still plugged in. The solution? Turn off or unplug the source of electricity that powers your device.

Let us know what you are doing to reduce your energy use.

Take Action Burlington! Collectively we can make a difference!