Lanka observes Earth Hour today

Sri Lanka will observe Earth Hour today for the second consecutive year together with ministries, government institutions, private sector firms and civil organizations, Earth Hour Sri Lanka Chairman Abdul Qadir Uwais said.

Sri Lanka along with 131 countries and more than 4,000 cities will switch off lights of many landmark buildings and structures from 8.30 pm to 9.30 pm in a move to take action against climate change, Uwais said.

"The Earth Hour Sri Lanka Brand Ambassadors for 2011 is Bathiya and Santhush. They will perform live at an open event at the Galle Face Green today from 8.00 pm to 9.30 pm," Uwais said.

The Brand Ambassadors have asked fans to contribute to the event by switching off extra lights and being with them during the hour, he said.

The Trade and Environment Ministry has pledged their support for the event while many private sector firms are taking various initiatives to observe the Earth Hour, Uwais said.

Western Province Environment Minister Udaya Gammanpila has launched a campaign to encourage people to switch off lights on the following day at the same time, Uwais said.

Bathiya and Santhush and the Earth Hour Sri Lanka team will be present at this event, he said.