When each of us becomes aware of our own power to take responsibility to change our behavior in small ways to conserve energy and other resources, we can collectively make a big difference — to ourselves, to our pocketbooks, and to our environment. All we have to do is recognize our power and use it. That is the power of one.
Energy-saving suggestions:
* Turn down your thermostat and wear a sweater; install a programmable thermostat.
* Use compact fluorescent light bulbs and dimming switches/motion detectors; turn off TV and lights when not in the room.
* Wash only full loads of clothes or dishes.
* Take shorter showers; turn off the water when you brush your teeth.
* Use the microwave whenever possible — it uses 50 percent less energy than a conventional oven.
* Set your computer to go to standby or hibernate when not in use; turn off your computer monitor.
* Turn off lights and computers in offices and businesses when not needed and at the end of the day.
* Unplug cell phone char-gers/adaptors/appliances when not in use.
* Use recycled paper products.
* Use GOOS — “good on one side” — paper in your copier/printer or make double sided copies.
* Sign up to receive and pay bills online.
* Recycle electronics, eyeglasses, cell phones, paper, cans and plastic.
* Shop farmers’ markets for locally grown food.
* Keep your car tires properly inflated; empty your trunk; drive the speed limit; combine errands into a single car trip.
* Pack less on trips.
* Dispose of used oil and other chemicals properly.
“The people of the United States represent less than 5 percent of the world’s population — yet that 5 percent gobbles up more than one quarter of the planet’s resources. If the rest of the world rose to the U.S. level of consumption, four additional planets would be needed to supply the resources and absorb the waste.” — Sky Magazine, March, 2009
Join Earth Hour supporters at 8:30 p.m. Saturday on the Iola square for an “unlighting” ceremony. Entertainment provided.
Earth Hour tips shared
