At 8:30 pm on March 27, 2010, the world will turn off its lights for just one hour – Earth Hour. Switching off your lights is just one simple action that you can take to help make a difference and it sends a powerful message that we care about our planet.

Earth Hour started in Australia in 2007 when the residents of Sydney were asked to turn off their lights for one hour - a project aimed at bringing the issue of energy conservation and climate change to the fore.

On March 31, 2007, 2.2 million people and 2100 Sydney businesses turned off their lights for one hour - Earth Hour. This massive collective effort reduced Sydney's energy consumption by 10.2% for one hour, which is the equivalent effect of taking 48,000 cars off the road for one hour. Inspired by the collective effort of millions of Sydneysiders, 17 major global cities are joining Earth Hour in 2008, turning a symbolic event into a global movement. Many Ontario cities are participating in and promoting this event.

Only emergency and essential lighting will remain on at all Menkes managed commercial properties between 8 pm and 9 pm on March 27. We are actively promoting this event to all our tenants and customers and encourage their participation.

Menkes is excited to be part of such an extraordinary global event to raise awareness and support climate change through energy saving initiatives. Our involvement in this event is part of Menkes’ on-going commitment to protect the environment and to meet and exceed legislated requirements in our commercial properties. Menkes is committed to a green and sustainable future.

For more information go to www.wwf.ca/earthhour