The Time = Earth Hour

The Frederick Board of County Commissioners today announced continued support for Earth Hour, an annual event when people, organizations, corporations and governments around the world come together to make a statement about their concern for the environment and harmful carbon emissions by doing something simple -- pledging to turn off their lights for one hour. Turning out the lights signals support for a shift to cleaner air, a strong economic future and a more secure nation.

The commissioners will participate in Earth Hour 2010 on Saturday, March 27, by turning off all non-essential lighting in county government buildings from 8:30 - 9:30 p.m. and by inviting residents and businesses to join them in turning out lights and taking action. Anyone can join the Frederick County effort by signing up at the Earth Hour webpage, found at www.myearthhour.org/home?invite=QJV6AA7FAU.

Board President Jan Gardner commented, “Turning off the lights for an hour in support of Earth Hour is one small step the county is taking toward reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. More aggressively, we are taking steps to reduce our use of non-renewable energy by 50% in county buildings, facilities and the vehicle fleet over the next 15 years. In doing so, we are saving taxpayer dollars and significantly reducing our impact on the environment.”

Over the past year, Frederick County Government has been developing community energy programs, housed in the Office of Environmental Sustainability. The commissioners urge residents and businesses to contact the office to learn additional ways to incorporate Earth Hour into everyday life, from turning out lights when leaving a room, to unplugging unnecessary electronic equipment, to using energy-efficient appliances.