2012 Earth Hour
It's hard to believe that over 200 UA students were willing to go for a whole hour without using electricity. That's what happened at the UA's 5th Annual Earth Hour hosted by the Residence Life Eco-Reps on the campus mall March 31st.
What started in Sydney Australia in 2007 has become a world-wide movement. The UA’s Earth Hour celebration continues to grow, from its inception with 20 people to over 200 participants this year, according to Jill Ramirez, Residence Life Sustainability Coordinator. The annual event educates resident and provides the opportunity for students to take a stand against climate change. “Earth Hour helps raise awareness of the easy ways we can save electricity every day”, said one student from Árbol de la Vida residence hall.
This year's event included electricity-free performances on the mall by The Charles Darwin Experience comedy troupe, Noteriety singing group, Planet Djembe drumming, and Elemental Artistry fire dancing. “It’s important to show that college students…have a sense of what’s going on and that we have passion, as well. The youth can make a difference" said David Hagar, Eco-Rep's President. The Residence Life Eco-Reps were even able to get the University to turn off the mall lights east of Cherry for the event.
Ernie Somoza/ Daily Wildcat
Story also featured in the Arizona Daily Wildcat
4/17/2012 3:55:46 PM