15 June is Global Wind Day

In 2010 the European Wind Energy Association (EWEA) and the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) are organising wind events around the world for both the public and the media to come and find out more about wind energy. Already some 45 organisations have signed up to take part, with others sure to join them. 

“Imagine being able to harness the power of nature in a sustainable way to create abundant clean energy, tackle  climate change, create jobs and end our dangerous dependence on polluting fossil fuels”, said Steve Sawyer, Secretary General of  GWEC. “It’s not a dream, it’s wind energy – and it definitely deserves a special day.”  

Last year over 300 Global Wind Day events were held in 35 countries from China to the Czech Republic to Canada.  

“2010 will be even bigger,” said Christian Kjaer, Chief Executive of EWEA. “Wind Day has grown in popularity since its launch in 2007 because wind power itself is breaking all records. In Europe more wind power was installed in the last two years than any other energy-generating technology. There is spectacular growth in China, the US and elsewhere. It's a global success story."  

“Global Wind Day is a fantastic opportunity for people to participate in wind energy events and ask all the questions they may have about it,” added Kjaer. “People will be able to see for themselves how it works and what the benefits are.”

EWEA has put up a 29 metre turbine blade in the middle of the Schuman roundabout next to the European Commission and European Council in the heart of the European quarter of Brussels, to promote its message and new campaign: “Give Europe a breath of fresh air”.

From wind farm open days and conferences, to exhibitions, information days, sporting contests and photo contests, there will be something for everyone in most corners of the globe.

For example, in the spectacular setting of the Villa Borghese in central Rome there will be conferences and sporting events for over two weeks. In Poland, inflatable wind turbines eight metres high will be placed in front of government offices around the country. In Estonia, a ‘wind turbines in the future’ design contest will award the winner the chance to drive a Toyota Prius for one month. In Argentina, Sweden and the Netherlands there will be photo competitions.

In Brussels, on Monday, 14 June there will be a press conference (on the day before Global Wind Day) at the foot of the blade on Schuman roundabout.