March 30, 2019 marks the 13th annual Earth Hour in support of reducing energy use, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and raising awareness about environmental issues.

In Manitoba residents are encouraged to participate in earth hour from 8:30 pm to 9:30 pm by turning off their lights.

“Manitoba continues to support ideas and projects that reduce energy consumption and increase awareness of the importance of taking steps to reduce our environmental footprint,” Squires said.  “Participating in Earth Hour by turning off your lights for one hour tomorrow is easy, free and sends a powerful message that when we all work together, we can accomplish great things.”

Earth Hour began in Australia in 2007 as an initiative in support of the World Wildlife Fund but it has grown over the last decade to encourage everyone on the planet to think globally but act locally.

Once again this year the province is participating by turning off all non-essential lights in government-owned buildings including the Legislative Building. Employees across Manitoba were asked to turn off computers, monitors and lights in the workplace before leaving work.