When the Going Gets Tough, the Tough Go Green

Energy in America

The United States uses the most energy in terms of total use in the world. This needs to change. Our overusage of gas causes us to rely on and support countries that are totalitarian or inhumane in their way of government. America seeks energy independence, but this isn't possible unless we lower the demand for energy within our country. Not only this, but the way  we get our energy and use it is often detrimental to the environment. Using less energy will not only help the environment and the country, but will make your energy bill lower! Look below for tips. Also, check this site for more tips (thank you, Christina!).

Lighting

  • Change your lightbulbs from incandescent to CFL's (compact fluorescent lightbulbs..the swirly ones)
  • Use light emitting diodes (LED) wherever you can
  • Use light from windows (natural light) as opposed to artificial light
  • ALWAYS turn off lights when you're not using them

Appliances

  • Use Energy Star appliances
  • Unplug appliances when you're not using them, if this is too hard for you to remember then...
  • Buy a "smart" power strip that detects when you're not using appliances and turns off automatically
  • Keep appliances clean/in good repair 

Washer/Dryer

  • Wash clothes in cold water whenever possible (saving the energy to heat water)
  • Use a drying rack or clothesline to dry your clothes, or if you're attached to your dryer...
  • Buy dryer balls to cut drying time

Water Heater

Air Conditioning

  • Use Energy Star air conditioning
  • Use air conditioning only when you NEED to. Find cooler rooms in your house or open a window.
  • Set your thermostat a few degrees lower in the winter and a few higher in the summer.

Cars

  • Clean out your car and pump your tires for fuel efficiency.
  • Car pool or just don't drive at all: bike or walk to school and work.
  • Consider buying a hybrid or diesel car

Windows

Solar Power

  • Install solar water heaters in your house
  • Make a garden: the plants will take away heat in the summer, but will not be there in the winter (create more heat), working as a thermostat
  • Install solar electric panels on the roof

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