President Al Bowman

President Bowman's Message on Earth Hour

This Saturday evening (March 29) from 8-9 p.m., Illinois State University will join thousands of cities, businesses, organizations and individuals around the world in dimming lights and raising awareness about climate change during Earth Hour.  Earth Hour began last year in Sydney, Australia with 2.2 million people and 2,100 businesses participating.  The result was a 10 percent reduction in electricity use as city landmarks, businesses and homes voluntarily went dark.  This year, Earth Hour has become a global movement with some of the world’s biggest cities including Copenhagen, Toronto, Chicago, Melbourne, Brisbane, Tel Aviv and Manila participating.   For more information visit www.earthhour.org

“I strongly encourage all members of the Illinois State community to participate in Earth Hour by turning off non-essential lights and appliances this Saturday night.  Faculty and staff members can help out by switching off lights and computer monitors as they leave work on Friday evening.  I also encourage faculty and staff to carry the Earth Hour message into their own neighborhoods by switching off lights at home during that hour.      

Locally, Illinois State is joining with the Town of Normal, the City of Bloomington, Illinois Wesleyan University, Heartland Community College and State Farm in switching off non-essential lights during Earth Hour. The greenhouse gases emitted by the production of electricity are a major contributing factor to global warming.  Having fewer lights burning will not only save electricity, it will serve as a visual reminder that small actions – done by enough people – can make a huge difference in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. 

I’m proud that Illinois State is taking part in the global Earth Hour initiative.  I’m also very proud of the programs the University has put in place in recent years to increase energy efficiency, reduce waste and enhance recycling efforts.  By working together we can save energy and lessen our environmental impact.  It can start with the flip of a switch.”