Earth Day isn't just a one-day celebration; it's a reminder of our ongoing responsibility to care for our planet. As we commemorate Earth Day, let's extend the spirit of environmental awareness and action throughout the year.
Improving energy efficiency presents a remarkable opportunity for individuals, communities, and businesses alike to lessen their environmental footprint while reaping financial benefits.
- The US consumes 16% of the world's energy, yet we're home to just 4.23% of the population.
- Around one-third of energy in homes and businesses is wasted annually, costing the US a staggering $150 billion.
- In 2022, the US emitted 4,964 million metric tons of CO2, equivalent to about 13,600 Empire State Buildings.
- If everyone lived like the average American, we'd need over five Earths to sustain us.
How You Can Help
Here are some simple ways to boost energy efficiency in your daily life:
- Switch to LED Bulbs: LED lights use 90% less energy and last up to 25 times longer than incandescent bulbs.
- Adjust Your Thermostat: Lowering your thermostat by 7-10ºF for 8 hours a day can save up to 10% on heating and cooling costs. Consider a programmable thermostat for easy control.
- Get a Home Energy Assessment: A professional assessment can help you learn how to make your home more energy-efficient. Many utility companies offer free or low-cost assessments.
- Choose Energy Star Appliances: Energy Star-certified appliances use less energy and may qualify you for rebates and assistance programs.
- Adopt Daily Energy-Saving Habits: Turn off lights when you leave a room, unplug electronics when not in use, and spend time away from screens to reduce energy consumption.
Every small change adds up to make a big difference. By embracing energy efficiency and sharing your journey with others, you can inspire more people to join the movement.
The Climate Action Corps team shares tips and tricks that can help you be a better steward of our environment. Want to keep getting environmental sustainability news? Be sure to subscribe to the Campus Climate Action Corps newsletter for more.