Coasters gave a warm hug to the planet as they turned down the heat and put on their sweaters Feb. 9 as part of National Sweater Day.
The World Wildlife Fund promoted the nation-wide event as a way to combat climate change and work toward a sustainable future.
On their website at www.sweaterday.ca, guest grandmas made calls to remind people to lower the heat and wear those lovely sweaters that have been knitted for them over the years.
On the Coast, individuals, businesses and governments participated, showing off their special sweaters at work and turning the heat down a notch or two.
The Sunshine Coast Regional District (SCRD), Town of Gibsons and District of Sechelt got into the spirit with staff sporting sweaters for the cause. Even the statue of George Gibson was dressed in a bright red sweater to mark the occasion.
SCRD community energy manager Johan Stroman said the effort could have some serious environmental benefits if continued.
"If every Canadian lowered their heat by a few degrees this winter it would be the equivalent to taking 300,000 vehicles off the road," Stroman said. "Putting on a sweater can save energy and money and help the environment."
Stroman added that if Coasters set their thermostat back by five degrees for eight hours every night approximately 10 per cent can be saved on monthly heating bills.
"A programmable thermostat can make this an easy task at night and when you're out of your home," Stroman said.
In honour of National Sweater Day, two programmable thermostats from Gibsons Building Supplies and Sunshine Coast Home Building Centre were given away. Contests were run at Sew Easy in Sechelt and Unwind in Gibsons as well and gift certificates were given away.
Stroman said another chance for the public to show their environmental spirit is just around the corner.
"Earth Hour will take place on March 31. Com-munities, businesses and individuals worldwide are encouraged to turn off their lights and unnecessary equipment for one hour at 8:30 p.m.," Stroman said.
