OTTAWA – Tomorrow, the Green Party will join concerned citizens, businesses, and governments across Canada and around the world in marking and celebrating another Earth Hour – the sixth since it was founded by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) in Sydney, Australia, in 2007.
The good news is that this global action – turning off their lights, holding vigils, and marking the importance of climate action – is now a recognized part of our international culture. The bad news is that every year the need to raise awareness and act to stop rising temperatures and extreme weather events brought on by rising GHG levels is greater than ever.
There simply is no adequate response to the crisis that is developing before our eyes. In fact, with the new rush to extract oil, shale gas, and minerals, thus increasing carbon emissions, is pushing us closer to disaster – and possibly irreversible climate catastrophe.
Scientists and climate experts have warned that 350 parts-per-million (ppms) of CO2 in our atmosphere is the safe upper limit. We are now at 392 ppms – a level of carbon 30 per cent above any level over the last million years (based on Antarctic ice core data) – and this is rising about 2 ppms a year.
Green Party Leader Elizabeth May, MP Saanich will be celebrating Earth Hour with supporters in her riding at a candlelight potluck. For those interested in more information or attending, you can learn more and sign up now.
“I have been taking part in Earth Hour from its inception,” said May, “This year, after watching the destruction of our crucial environmental legislation and more, I’m urging as many Canadians as possible to show their support for this event. It helps to raise consciousness and reduce emissions, recognizing its primary value is symbolic. Join Greens from around the world in celebrating Earth Hour."
In Ottawa, there will be a Green Party event on Parliament Hill starting at 8pm. Learn more about Earth Hour events on their website.
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