Alex Cunningham has signed up to support this year’s Earth Hour at 20:30 on Saturday, 28 March 2015, highlighting the importance of protecting the world’s forests.
Stockton North’s Member of Parliament is one of many politicians this year supporting Earth Hour – WWF’s annual global grassroots movement which sees millions of people around the world come together to switch off their lights for one hour in a symbolic act of support to show they care about our brilliant planet.
And the Labour MP is also backing the WWF’s current campaign for a responsible trade in sustainably-sourced forest products, which highlights the issue of illegally sourced timber and unsustainable forest management while aiming to make responsible forest trade the norm. As part of the campaign, WWF-UK is challenging business and the government to commit to responsible trade in wood and paper to help end deforestation around the world.
Deforestation is having a devastating effect on the world’s last remaining natural forests in such places as Indonesia, Central Africa and Far East Russia. The world has lost nearly half its forests, with only a tenth of what remains being protected. But global demand for wood for timber, paper and fuel is set to triple by 2050.
Alex said:
“Our planet is under pressure and we are facing huge environmental challenges, including illegal logging and unsustainable management of forests. Earth Hour is a chance for everyone to show this matters and help make a difference.
“It is genuinely inspiring that millions of people across the globe will come together at the same time – 20:30 on Saturday, 28 March – to celebrate Earth Hour and take positive action to protect our natural world.”
Shareen Brown, head of WWF-UK’s Earth Hour, said: “Our natural resources are running out. We are already living beyond the limits of one planet, but by making small changes, our daily lives can become more sustainable. Politicians play a vital part in helping to tackle the major conservation issues such as deforestation, so it’s great to have their support for Earth Hour. It’s a timely reminder that we all need to be doing more to protect some of our planet’s most precious wildlife and places.”