No matter what the subject, one of our regular commenters (hi Patrick!) is likely to chip in with a comment about the wasted energy from lights being left on in big buildings in the city centre. He will not doubt be relieved that for one (hour of one) night at least, the lights were out.

Spotting a gap in the City Council’s twitter feed on the subject of Earth Hour, and peckish for some gratuitous Council-bashing, we asked the press team for a statement. For once we’ve been thwarted – here’s what we got;

A Manchester City Council spokesperson said: “The city council recognises the importance and significance of global events such as Earth Hour in raising awareness about climate change and encouraging organisations and individuals to act. The city council therefore eagerly participated in Earth Hour 2013 with a particular focus on ensuring maximum participation at the Town Hall (as a landmark building), but also with the involvement of buildings and staff throughout the estate.”

Our activities can be summarised as follows: A briefing note endorsed by the Executive Member for the Environment and the Deputy Chief Executive (Neighbourhoods) was circulated to all building managers advising them of the campaign and asking them to join in. Additional arrangements were also made at the Town Hall with facilities management staff to ensure all non-essential lighting was switched off between 8.30 and 9.30pm, as a minimum. An email bulletin was sent out to all Council employees advising them to ensure that, as per normal working practices, they switched off all lights and equipment. And finally a press release was circulated and published online. http://www.manchester.gov.uk/news/article/6572/climate_change-no_likey_no_lighty

The Council’s participation was registered with WWF who acknowledged our support.

Could they have done more? Yes, but couldn’t everyone… 266 people out of 400,000 or so… oh my.