NEIA encouraging people, businesses, and governments to mark Earth Hour

For Immediate Release
March 22, 2013

ST. JOHN’S, NL – The Newfoundland and Labrador Environmental Industry Association (NEIA) is encouraging Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to turn off the lights tomorrow night in support of ‘Earth Hour’, a global call to combat climate change.

Earth Hour asks individuals, businesses and governments around the world to turn off their lights for one hour to support urgent action on climate change. It is an environmental event which attracts the support of hundreds of millions world-wide each year, and spreads awareness regarding the link between energy use and climate change.

“The benefits gained from energy efficiency are not just environmental,” said Ted Lomond, Executive Director of NEIA, “they are also economical.”

The International Energy Agency estimates that every dollar invested in energy efficiency generates more than $4 in cost savings, and that the savings can pay for the necessary upgrades after approximately four years. These savings will generate important economic benefits such as lower energy bills and stronger business competitiveness.

“In addressing the issue of climate change, by becoming more energy efficient, local businesses will better positioned to succeed, meaning more employment opportunities for Newfoundland and Labradorians” said Lomond.

Lomond notes the success of the Provincial Government’s ‘Turn Back the Tide’ public awareness campaign on climate change and energy efficiency. “NEIA is pleased that government is acting on the important issue of climate change,” said Lomond.

“The cleanest energy is the energy we don’t use,” said Lomond. “Strong participation in Earth Hour will help educate Newfoundland and Labradorians on how they consume energy, what impacts that consumption has, and what difference their day-to-day choices can make”.

NEIA is a not-for-profit association of businesses that promotes the growth and development of the environmental industry in this province. It is Newfoundland and Labrador’s premier resource for the industry offering a diverse range of expert knowledge and services in the business of mitigating and minimizing environmental damage for the protection and enhancement of the environment for present and future generations. NEIA has over 140 members.

— 30 —

Media Contact
Kieran Hanley: 709.237.8190