Meridian to mark Earth Hour

Meridian to mark Earth Hour

The country’s biggest electricity generator will be turning off the lights at its own premises this coming Saturday as it marks Earth Hour 2010.

Earth Hour is an event run by the Worldwide Fund for Nature each year to promote energy conservation and environmental issues. Populations worldwide are encouraged to switch off their lights for one hour on March 27.

Meridian Chief Executive Tim Lusk says the company will be doing its bit to reinforce one of Earth Hour’s primary messages – that electricity is a valuable resource and not to be taken for granted.

“One of the major aims of Earth Hour is to help people value electricity, and via this lesson support continued action on climate change. This year the focus is even wider with people being asked to go beyond turning off the lights and make a pledge to start something bigger – living more sustainably in their everyday lives.

“At Meridian we believe that every hour is ‘earth hour’. We don’t take electricity for granted and we’re committed to generating it from renewable resources. We are also focused on reducing our carbon footprint, and helping our customers reduce theirs.”

Mr Lusk says the WWF has recommended seven simple changes that businesses can introduce to make a positive difference to their energy use and Meridian is proud to have made them all.

The changes include motion-sensor lighting in buildings, choosing energy efficient machinery and appliances, educating staff to turn off lights and office equipment when they don’t need them, and the company has an emissions reduction plan that encourages all staff to think before they travel or use resources.

“We provide recycling and compost facilities in kitchen areas, support staff who walk or cycle to work by providing shower facilities and cycle racks. We belong to the Sustainable Business Network, the Sustainable Business Forum, the New Zealand Business Council for Sustainable Development - and we measure our carbon footprint every year and have it independently audited through Landcare.” Mr Lusk says.

ENDS

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