London_Eye_lit_up_by_EDF_for_first_time_January_25_2011January 25 - A special light show at the London Eye this morning has marked an £8 million ($12 million) three-year deal with London 2012 sponsor EDF Energy.


The illumination of the tourist attraction at sunrise was used to mark the dawning of a low-carbon vision for the capital and beyond, according to EDF Energy, London 2012's sustainability partner.

Speaking as the lights hit the sky above the newly-named EDF Energy London Eye, sprint cycle champion Victoria Pendleton said: "2011 is a big year for London as the Olympics draw even closer, so it's fantastic to see one of the most recognisable landmarks of the London skyline become a symbol of our city's commitment to a lower carbon future.

"As hosts of the next Olympic Games, the world is watching London and we have a huge opportunity to use this event to make real progress towards a greener Britain.

"I hope the EDF Energy London Eye will become an icon that inspires people to take action against climate change and make sustainability part of their everyday lives."

Pendleton is an EDF Energy ambassador along with Paralympic rowing champion Tom Aggar.

Jean_Christoph_Rolland_Tom_Aggar_and_Gareth_Wynn_EDF_Energy_London_Eye_January_25_2011

He said: "The London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games will be a time when all eyes are on London.

"It was fantastic to see one of our most recognisable icons, the EDF Energy London Eye, light up alongside the river this morning to encourage people to live a lower carbon lifestyle.

"Whether at home or on the road competing, I think about what I can do to be more sustainable in my daily life and as one of EDF Energy's Team Green Britain ambassadors.

"I want to help inspire people to do their bit and join people all over the country pledging their support to a more sustainable future."

Gareth Wynn, director of 2012 Programme, EDF Group, said: "In the run-up to 2012, our partnership with the London Eye will be a powerful way to help EDF Energy communicate our vision of a low carbon future.

"We hope it will inspire people and businesses to make their own sustainability commitments."


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