Welcome to the Greenside
Monday November 5th marks the start of the NBC family having an entirely “Green” week dedicating programming to becoming more environmentally friendly and hopefully inspiring all of you to head over to the Greenside! Many people know that our planet has taken a hit from our unhealthy and polluting lifestyles but wonder, “how can I make a difference?” Well I’m here to let you know that “Going Green” is not only easy but it can save you money as well, here are some of the tips I have used to give my lifestyle a more greenish hue.
1. Unplug appliances that are not being used.
Now I know it sounds like a bother to run around your home unplugging your microwave, computer, television, lamp, and cell phone charger to just have to plug it in 1 hour later to use your appliance but here is a tip: use a power strip! By putting your appliances on a power strip you simply flip a switch and you are not only saving money on your power bill but you are “Going Green."
2. Replace your traditional light bulb with the new energy saving bulbs.
Some people think that the bulbs are too expensive but the amount of money you will save overtime on powering the lights around your home actually makes these new bulbs a more economical choice.
3. Drive a smaller more fuel-efficient car or a hybrid vehicle.
Okay, I know many people can’t afford to have a nice hybrid car to save the environment but you can drive a smaller car saving you money in the end not only on initial cost but also on gas. I drive a Toyota Yaris, which was very affordable up front, but it also gets up to 40 miles to the gallon!
4. Carpool when you can.
If you have a friend at work that lives near you suggest that you drive together. It might take a few minutes out of your day but it’s an easy way to help the environment and if you alternate driving you could take a nap on the way to work half of the time!
5. Put on a sweatshirt and grab an extra blanket before cranking up the heat.
Everyone I work with knows how cold I get and how much I hate to be cold but by grabbing an extra layer instead of putting on the heat you will save money and the planet. Plus nothing can make you feel more relaxed than cuddling under a blanket!
Now these are just five things that I do to be more environmentally friendly but there are many more out there so come on over to the Greenside!
Comments
Yaris: hot car!
Posted by: Michael Merwin | November 6, 2007 05:52 PM
that all seems like some pretty easy stuff todo but what can you do if you live in an apartment building?
Posted by: lena gustafson | November 7, 2007 02:16 PM
Use of an outlet strip is a smart idea and has another advantage: If thunderstorms are approaching or predicted to develop, the strip can be easily unplugged from the wall, thereby protecting all connected devices from damage should the power line outside the house suffer a lightning strike during the storm. (Never rely on a "surge suppressor" or the switch on the strip for protection against damage caused by a nearby lightning strike.)
Other points to consider:
If an electronic device (TV/stereo/VCR/DVD player, etc.) can be turned on using a wireless remote control, then it contains circuitry that is powered continuously in order to sense and act upon the remote control's signals, even when the device is turned "off".
For devices that use plug-in transformers (a.k.a. "power cubes" or "wall warts") such as battery chargers and AC adapters, the transformer is powered continuously as long as it is plugged into the outlet, even when the attached device is turned "off" or is unplugged from the transformer.
Pet owners: There's no need to keep "Invisible Fences" powered on at times when the pet's collar is turned off, or when the pet is locked up in the house (or away on business).
Likewise, there's no need for parents to keep a baby monitor's transmitter turned on if the monitor (receiver) itself is turned off.
John
Posted by: John Magliacane | November 9, 2007 05:02 PM