Taking steps to conserve and reuse is one of the best things you can do to help save the environment, and it is easier than you might think. Start small and do your part just by changing your daily habits. To help save the environment, try decreasing energy and water consumption; changing your eating and transportation habits to conserve natural resources; and reducing, reusing, and recycling to be more environmentally friendly. Once you've made your own lifestyle more environmentally conscious, you can also engage in activism to help educate others on doing the same 1
Turn off electric items when they are not in use to save energy. A good rule of thumb is that if you aren’t using it, turn it off. This goes for lights, televisions, computers, printers, video game consoles and so on.[1]
Use a power strip to control multiple items with the flip of a single switch. You can plug all of your devices into one power source. This is especially useful for computers and entertainment system setups. When you're done, simply turn the power strip off with the switch.[2]
If you find that you have a hard time remembering to turn your devices and appliances off, try picking up an outlet timer at your local hardware store or online for as little as $5.00. Set the timer to turn off at the same time each day. 2
Unplug devices whenever possible to limit the flow of electricity. Leaving devices such as laptops, desktop computers, mixer-grinders, ovens, TVs etc., plugged in can use "phantom" energy. Many devices and appliances simply stay on standby or enter a sleep mode when they are turned off. These items still draw electricity when they are in this state.[3]
This is especially important if you go on vacation, and for items that you do not anticipate using within the next 36 hours. 4
Switch to LED light bulbs in as many lights as you can. LED light bulbs do cost more than conventional light bulbs, but the benefits outweigh the cost. They use 25-85% less energy, last 3-25% longer, and are much better/safer for the environment.[5]
When replacing your bulbs, start with the lights that you use the most. 5
Trade in your electric dryer for a good old-fashioned clothesline. Tumble dryers are among the biggest energy-users in most households, after the refrigerator and air conditioner. Air drying your clothes is environmentally friendly and still leaves your clothes smelling fresh.[6]
If you do use a dryer, make sure to clean the vent often for efficiency as well as safety.
