Despite the scattered showers more than 100 people turned out to learn how to be more environmentally conscious for Earth Day yesterday.

The Bermuda Association of Eco-clubs put on the event at Victoria Park. On hand were a variety of groups including the Bermuda National Trust, Greenhouse Bermuda, Keep Bermuda Beautiful and the Vegetarian Society of Bermuda.

Organiser Alison Copeland said the group decided to hold the event, which is its second year, to encourage people to think about the environment. She added:<\p>"At a time when Bermuda is becoming more divided, events where everyone in the community can come together for one common purpose; to celebrate something that affects us all, is exactly what we need to help unify our Island."

The Department of Energy was also at the event providing the public with information about the new reduced tariff rates of several energy efficient products, some of which the Government agreed to completely waive import duty on in order to encourage the use of renewable and efficient energy technologies.

Andrew Davis, the manager at Solar Bermuda Ltd. said his company decided to attend the event to get the word out about products they provide. The company provides wind generators solar pool circulating systems, solar thermal heating and solar panels.

"We wanted to teach people about these products and how they save energy and reduce the cost of electricity,"<\p>he said. "A lot of people have come by. The products have become increasingly popular in Bermuda."

Also on hand was Olympic hopeful Alex Jones whose company Power Savers stocks Geyser Heat Pump water heaters.

The unit, approximately the size of a household safe, fits onto an existing water heater and effectively replaces the electric heating element with a heat pump system that pulls heat out of the air, making it three to four times more efficient than electric hot water.

So far locals have been less receptive to his product, although he believes commercial properties are interested.

"At the moment, with this economy, people do not want to part with their money, even though it means saving money. People are afraid to invest in something. It is similar to solar, but at a fraction of the price."

He said the unit can save people $130 on there electricity bill and comes with a 60 day guarantee.

Mr. Jones is hoping the company will help finance his bid to represent Bermuda in windsurfing at the London 2012 Olympic Games.

To find out more about the Bermuda Association of Eco-clubs email basec.bda@gmail.com