THE Penang Green Council (PGC) has set a target of involving 500 individuals and organisations to take part in a pledging programme for the upcoming annual Earth Hour 2024.
PGC general manager Josephine Tan Mei Ling urged the public to join in by turning off non-essential lights for one hour as a symbolic gesture of solidarity in the fight against climate change on March 23 from 8.30pm to 9.30pm.
“The main objective of Earth Hour is to raise awareness about energy consumption. Earth Hour is not just about switching off lights for one hour.
“Most importantly, it has to be a continuous effort. It does not serve any point if we only switch off lights for just an hour.
“In essence, it is about to cultivating a different mindset. For example, if it is not necessary to use energy, we should power it down. We should change our daily practice,” Tan said.
She explained that this year, PGC has done away with a press conference to announce its Earth Hour pledging programme in an effort to cut down on carbon emissions.
Instead, PGC has enlisted the state leaders to issue calls to action through video clips and photos.
She said PCG is excited to lead the Earth Hour movement in Penang and encourage everyone to participate in this global initiative. PGC senior officer Kee Shin Ai and researcher Melawani Othman are at the forefront of spearheading the programme.
“As a key advocate for environmental sustainability in the region, the Penang Green Council is committed to mobilising individuals, businesses, and communities across the state to participate in this global initiative.
“By reducing energy consumption, promoting renewable energy, and advocating for sustainable practices, we can mitigate the impacts of climate change and build a more resilient and sustainable future for all.
“We believe that Earth Hour is an opportunity for everyone to make a difference. By participating in Earth Hour and taking action to reduce our energy consumption and carbon footprint, we can all contribute to building a more sustainable and resilient future for Penang and beyond,” she emphasised.
PGC is among the stakeholders for Earth Day (April 22), during which the state intends to plant a million trees to mark the occasion. The concept of planting a million trees was initiated by Penang Governor Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak.
For more information about the Earth Hour pledging programme and initiatives in Penang, please follow Penang Green Council’s social media platform or contact Ms Mela or Kee at 04-250 3321. To pledge your support, click here: https://shorturl.at/iuwX2
Story by K.H. Ong
Pix by Adleena Rahayu Ahmad Radzi