Matsushita Group Extends 'Light Down' Project through March 2006 to Cut CO2 Emissions

Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., a major Japanese consumer electronics manufacturer, has been engaged in a "Light Down" project since July 21, 2005 as part of its efforts to prevent global warming. Although the project was originally planned to be finished on September 30, the company has decided to extend it another six months, it was announced on October 21, 2005.

The "Light Down" project turns off the lights at 8 p.m. at 196 facilities and electric billboards in 220 sites of the Matsushita Group in Japan. It is a continuation of "Black Illumination 2005," a nationwide campaign to turn off illumination on the night of the summer solstice, on June 19, in order to reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. Through the project, the corporate group reduced 240,197 kWh of electricity, 105 tons of CO2 emissions and about 2.88 million yen (about U.S.$ 25,487) in electricity charges during the 72 days from July 21 to September 30, 2005.

Aware of the importance of curbing the impacts of human activities on the global environment, the company decided to extend the project for another six months. It expects to reduce electricity consumption by 850,000 kWh, CO2 emissions by 370 tons, and electricity costs by about 10 million yen (about U.S.$ 88,496) during the 254 days between the starting date in July 2005 and March 31, 2006.


- An Estimated 6.64 Million People Join 'Lights Down' Event 2005 to Fight Global Warming (Related JFS article)
http://www.japanfs.org/db/1187-e

Posted: 2006/01/25 02:48:16 PM
Japanese version