By The Editors

We know we must act to improve the environment and save the planet. While many of us recycle, use more energy-efficient light bulbs and other things, there is one more vital step we can take to make a global statement in support of Planet Earth.

Each and every one of us can join a worldwide election, an urgent contest between Planet Earth and global warming. And voting is literally as simple as flipping a switch or two for a mere 60 minutes on Saturday, March 28, from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m.

As the experts at EarthHour.org tell us, “For the first time in history, people of all ages, nationalities, race and background have the opportunity to use their light switch as their vote – Switching off your lights is a vote for Earth, or leaving them on is a vote for global warming. World Wildlife Federation (WWF) is urging the world to VOTE EARTH and reach the target of 1 billion votes, which will be presented to world leaders at the Global Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen 2009.

“This meeting will determine official government policies to take action against global warming, which will replace the Kyoto Protocol. It is the chance for the people of the world to make their voice heard.

“Earth Hour began in Sydney in 2007, when 2.2 million homes and businesses switched off their lights for one hour. In 2008 the message had grown into a global sustainability movement, with 50 million people switching off their lights. Global landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, Rome’s Colosseum, the Sydney Opera House and the Coca Cola billboard in Times Square all stood in darkness.

“In 2009, Earth Hour is being taken to the next level, with the goal of 1 billion people switching off their lights as part of a global vote. Unlike any election in history, it is not about what country you’re from, but instead, what planet you’re from. VOTE EARTH is a global call to action for every individual, every business, and every community. A call to stand up and take control over the future of our planet. Over 74 countries and territories have pledged their support to VOTE EARTH during Earth Hour 2009, and this number is growing everyday.

“We all have a vote, and every single vote counts. Together we can take control of the future of our planet, for future generations.

“VOTE EARTH by simply switching off your lights for one hour, and join the world for Earth Hour.”

Saturday, March 28, 8:30-9:30pm. Your vote is your voice and the source of your power, in more ways than one. Use it wisely and well.