Global event on Sat. brings awareness to climate change

Some of the world’s most iconic landmarks will go dark on Saturday at 8:30 p.m. local time to celebrate Earth Hour 2017, the world’s largest movement in support of action on climate change.

These will include the Empire State Building, the Space Needle and much of the Las Vegas strip, providing a powerful visual backdrop in support of Earth Hour, according to a press release.

As part of Earth Hour, people, cities and businesses around the world will switch off their lights for one hour to draw attention to the urgent need to step up our fight against climate change. With the historic Paris Agreement on climate change now in full force, there’s never been a more crucial time to hold leaders accountable and show strong public support for efforts to stem climate change, the release states. The movement has gained the attention of local leaders in our area, including U.S. Rep. Ryan Costello, R6th Dist.

“Local efforts such as Earth Hour show our united commitment to being good stewards of our environment,” Costello said. “I commend the work being done by local advocates to improve our communities and raise awareness about climate change.”

Other local leaders showing support include the North Coventry Township Board of Supervisors by motion has acknowledged its unanimous support and the Owen J. Roberts School District intends to participate.

Resident Dan Sager, an attorney and ambassador for the World Wildlife Fund, took his two adult sons to Washington recently to meet with aides from the offices of U.S. Rep. Pat Meehan, R-7th Dist., Costello and Rep. Charlie Dent’s, R15th Dist., along with U.S. Senators Pat Toomey, R-Pa., and Bob Casey, D-Pa. In each case, he said the officials were receptive to their concerns on topics like climate change, environmental conservation around the world and stopping illegal poaching.

“This is something not controversial in their minds,” he said. “In this area they are working together.”

Meehan and Costello, for example, are members of the Climate Solutions Caucus, a bipartisan group in the House which explores policy options that address the impacts, causes and challenges of climate change.

“In each situation, different dialogue, in essence they were very professional, polite and willing to hear you out,” Sager said. “They took notes and were certainly receptive at least in my perception and the World Wildlife perception.”

With events like Earth Hour, the goal is to continue to raise awareness and take action against climate change.

“It’s up to us now to maintain the momentum for action,” said Lou Leonard, senior vice president, climate and energy, World Wildlife Fund. “Cities, companies and the American people need to pick up the mantle of leadership on climate action. Movements matter, and the Earth Hour movement is a global reminder that people are leading the transformation to a more prosperous and renewable future.”

This year, music will help carry the Earth Hour message, creating a live soundtrack for the first truly global online rally to address climate change. World Wildlife Fund is asking musicians — from budding stars to well-known talent — to participate in Earth Hour Live, and live stream a set via Facebook Live or another live platform. Musicians from across the country and around the world will have the opportunity to spread awareness about climate change and engage in Earth Hour in an impactful and meaningful way, the release states.

Already, musicians from around the world are backing the movement, with artists across all genres already signed on to participate in Earth Hour Live. On March 25, music lovers and music makers alike are encouraged to turn off and tune in using the hashtag #EarthHourLive, according to the release.

To learn more about Earth Hour visit worldwildlife.org/earthhour.