It's lights out for the environment

21st November 2008

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WHAT'S your biggest turn-off?

More and more of us are answering that question with "environmental ignorance" most of us now realise we need to take big steps to save the planet.

That's why The Observer is asking Gladstone region residents to turn to their dark side by switching off next Wednesday for 30 minutes at 8pm as part of the Turn Off Your Lights campaign.

Those Gladstone residents who switch off their lights this year will not be alone in the dark.

They will be part of a huge powerless-exercise across the state and Northern NSW as 13 major centres hit the switches at 8pm.

Mackay, Rockhampton, Sunshine Coast, Maryborough, Gympie, Bundaberg, Toowoomba, Ipswich, Lismore, Tweed Heads, Coffs Harbour and Grafton are all taking part in this project via APN's daily newspaper network.

The Observer's acting editor Melanie Petrinec said it was a good chance for the community to get actively involved in saving the planet.

"If for just 30 minutes we turn off the electricity in our homes and light a couple of candles instead, imagine the emissions we could save," she said.

"Our readers have shown they are environmentally aware people who want to do something, even if it is something small, to help save the planet.

"If the weather looks good, it might be a nice night for star gazing, or maybe you could indulge in a candlelit dinner with a loved one the possibilities are endless."

The Turn Off Your Lights event will coincide with the publication of the Green Earth Guide in next Wednesday's Observer.