State to blackout today for safer planet

Lights would go off and electrical gadgets will fall silent from 8.30 pm to 9.30 pm on Saturday, as the state prepares to take part in a major global initiative to save the earth.

Individuals and organisations will also mark the 'Earth Hour' this year by giving up one electrical component to ensure a cleaner and greener environment in support of the WWF's "give up to give back" campaign.

Nokia and HSBC Bank will organise a cleanliness and awareness drive at the Madiwala Lake from 7 am on Saturday, in which Home Minister Ramalinga Reddy will also take part.

Hotels and resorts have pledged to turn off their lights during the Earth Hour, including popular ones in Kabini such as Carve, Bison, Waterwoods, Orange County and Evolve Back. Joining them would be historical monuments across the state, besides major corporate houses, which pledged to close down their operations for an hour.

All branches of  retailer Marks & Spencer have pledged to give up paper, committing to a 25% reduction in A3- and A4-size sheets this fiscal.

PVR Cinemas, on the other hand, has pledged to give up plastic bottles in their offices, while also asking film buffs to give up paper tickets and bills to go completely digital.

Footwear dealer Woodland has  also promised to rid their stores of plastic packing materials, while over 5.6 million Bharat Scouts and Guides have pledged to replace their plastic woggles, the signature element of their uniform, with eco-friendly options.

Hotel Radisson Blu Atria will turn off their induction loads during the Earth Hour and will place candles, while also promising to migrate to LED lights and solar panels in an effort to go green.

Started in Sydney in 2007 as a lights-off event to unite people and save power, Earth Hour, now a Singapore-based charity, works with volunteers and the WWF to protect the planet.On World Earth Hour, do not forget to turn off your lights and gadgets for an hour.