While Singapore celebrates (I guess) by lighting up the city, Australia goes ahead and does something just the opposite - switch off their lights. The goals are different, of course, one to "enhance and emphasise Singapore's unique features as a tropical metropolis and garden city", the other to save energy.
The Urban Renewal Authority of Singapore has developed a lighting plan for the city centre in collaboration with LPA (Lighting Planners Associates), covering key city attractions like Orchard, Singapore River, Bras Basah, Bugis, the Central Business District and Marina Bay. According to their blurb, "Good lighting of buildings and public spaces can develop a signature image for the city, create a beautiful nightscape and enliven the visitor’s experience. The signature of a vibrant global city calls for an alluring nightscape that is evocative and leaves a lasting impression."
As part of the Lights Off Australia initiative, Cooltheglobe.com is asking for lights and appliances that aren’t required overnight to be turned off. The event was officially launched on 25th February 2007. “This whole campaign is about cutting down energy wastage. While we’re starting with just one day per month, we genuinely hope this event starts to change people’s habits and it becomes part of everyday life.” said Sunrise Executive Producer Adam Boland. A second event held by the WWF Australia and the Sydney Morning Herald is asking all of Sydney to turn off their lights from 7:30p.m. on the 31st March 2007 as part of Earth Hour. Approximately 11,000 individuals as well as businesses and government offices have joined the effort. Sydneysiders Jo Elvey and Eric Hutchens, who had scheduled their wedding reception on that same day embraced Earth Hour by lighting candles and asking the band to play unplugged.
The deeds speak for themselves, and readers may also judge for themselves.
Sources:
http://www.ura.gov.sg/lightingplan/
http://www.inhabitat.com/2007/03/31/australia-turn-off-your-lights/#more-3397
