On March 29, when the clock strikes 8.30pm, the city of Dubai will plunge into darkness for an hour to mark their commitment towards the global environment initiative – Earth Hour.

 

Many prominent landmarks like the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai airports, government offices, and even savvy households will shut down their power to support energy conservation and reduction of carbon emission.

 

Apart from switching off unnecessary appliances for an hour, residents can also participate in a symbolic ceremony at the Bay Avenue Park from 5pm-10pm, and take part in the Earth Hour walk that kicks off at 8.30pm.

 

Being the first Arab nation to have enrolled for the hour-long campaign in 2008, Dubai is hoping to make substantial savings this year as well.

 

Khawla Almehairi, VP marketing and corporate communications at Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (Dewa), said that by publishing the savings clocked during Earth Hour last year. “Dewa achieved a reduction of 200,000KW of electricity and 120,000kg of carbon dioxide emissions.”

 

This year, said Almehairi, the savings are expected to go up to 220,000KW. She added that the ‘Make the switch’ campaign was launched two weeks ago to support the Earth Hour.

 

What started off as a symbolic programme has now evolved into a movement, with 7,001 cities and towns gearing to participate in the initiative this year.