Cities in Canada, India, Italy, Sweden and the United States will be invited this year to participate in an Earth Hour City Challenge, urging them to take a leadership role in the global transition towards a low carbon economy.“Cities currently account for over 70 per cent of global CO2 emissions – so their leadership in reducing emissions will be crucial if we are to avoid escalating levels of climate change” said Jim Leape, Director General of WWF International.“But there are exciting opportunities for cities that approach this challenge with creativity and determination. Cities can be hotspots for innovations that help people lead more fulfilling lives with much lower carbon footprints. The Earth Hour City Challenge aims to highlight these examples, and the leading role cities around the world can and must play in transitioning towards a one-planet future.”
Sweden’s third largest city Malmö took top honours in the Earth Hour City Challenge pilot last year, identified as an inspiring example of how a city can demonstrate low-carbon urban development. Malmö has achieved this through consistent and long-term planning, a comprehensive approach to energy, construction, transportation and densification and by promoting enabling environments for innovation and sustainable lifestyles.“In contrast to failed global climate negotiations, many cities can demonstrate concrete progress in transitioning towards a low-carbon future. Malmö is one of these cities, and aims to assume the role of a global green leader”, says Ilmar Reepalu, Mayor of Malmö. “But our work is not quite finished yet. Our goal is for Malmö to be powered by 100 per cent renewable energy by the year 2030.” Cities are invited to submit inspiring and credible plans for low-carbon development and for dramatically increasing the use of sustainable, efficient and renewable energy solutions for review by an international jury. Once reporting closes on November 19, the international jury will select five national champions and one Global Earth Hour Capital of the year to be announced to the world in March 2013.
Hundreds of millions of people, businesses and governments around the world unite each year to support the largest environmental event in history – Earth Hour. More than 5,200 cities and towns in 135 countries worldwide switched off their lights for Earth Hour 2011 alone, sending a powerful message for action on climate change. It also ushered in a new era with members going Beyond the Hour to commit to lasting action for the planet. Without a doubt, it’s shown how great things can be achieved when people come together for a common cause.” Earth Hour 2012 will take place on March 31, 2012 from 8:30p.m. to 9:30p.m. (local time)”