MANILA, Philippines?The Australian embassy joins organizations in 2,848 cities, towns, and municipalities in 84 countries who have already committed to Vote Earth for Earth Hour 2009 tomorrow, March 28, as part of the world?s first global election between Earth and global warming.

?We join the millions of individuals from around the world who have expressed their commitment to take a stand against the global threat of climate change,? Ambassador Rod Smith said in a statement.

Created by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), Earth Hour uses a simple action?turning off lights for one hour?to deliver a powerful message about the need for action against global warming.

This year, the initiative has been transformed into the world?s first global election between Earth and global warming. The WWF is aiming to reach 1 billion votes for Earth which will be presented to world leaders at the Global Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen, Denmark in 2009.

Earth Hour was first launched in Australia two years ago in March 31, 2007. More than 2.2 million Sydney residents and over 2,100 businesses switched off their lights for one hour, including Australia?s iconic landmarks, the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge.

This pioneering initiative resulted in a 10.2 percent energy reduction across the city, resulting in a reduction of 24.86 tons of carbon dioxide emissions?the equivalent of taking 48,613 cars off the road for an hour.

In 2008, the event became a global environmental movement in which over 50 million people from 35 countries around the world participated.

Prime Minister Kevin Rudd has pledged the Australian government?s support for Earth Hour 2009. Australian embassies, high commissions, and consulates around the world will take part in this year?s activity.

"The Australian government recognizes that climate change is one of the greatest economic, social, and environmental challenges of our time,? the ambassador said.

?We are working with the international community in developing a global response to address the problem, as well as to implement long and short term measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions within Australia.?

The Australian embassy Manila invites everyone to participate in supporting Earth Hour by turning off your lights between 8:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. this Saturday, March 28, and by making simple long-term changes that will collectively make a difference for our planet. From businesses turning off their lights when their offices are empty, to households fully turning off appliances when not in use, it?s the small changes that make a big difference.