Durban’s Mayor, Cllr Obed Mlaba has officially pledged support for the Earth Hour 2009 campaign, a global initiative to raise awareness on the effects of excessive energy consumption on climate change and the future of the earth.

To mark the occasion the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (ICC) has committed to partner with the city and switch off the lights at the landmark building for the hour. The city is also planning a parade through the city centre on Saturday to raise awareness of the event, and the energy saving campaign.

“The Earth Hour campaign is the ideal initiative to raise awareness on the effect of excessive energy consumption and wastage on the earth. We all need to do or bit to save energy, live responsibly and reduce wastage to ensure a brighter future for the generations to come,” said Mayor Mlaba.

“This project has perfect strategic fit with our current “Switch Off, Unplug, Save” campaign - the primary goal being to save 10% of electricity consumed by all eThekwini Municipality residents,” said Mayor Mlaba.

Mr Miller Matola, CEO of the ICC, Durban, said he fully supported the campaign and the drive to make individuals more aware of the need to conserve energy. ‘We are a significant consumer of power and are committed to playing whatever role we can in saving energy.”

Mayor Mlaba urged all residents to heed the global call to switch off their lights and appliances for one hour on 28 March between 8.30pm – 9.30pm.

A special call to all organisations such as the hotels, businesses and property owners to join the city in the Earth Hour campaign is being made.

Those businesses willing to participate can let email Archel Somaroo on somarooa@durban.gov.za.