Help Conserve Energy During Winter Break

Did you know energy generation from fossil fuels is the number one contributor to climate change? Conservation can help. Before leaving for holiday break, please take these three energy conservation steps:

Lights - Lighting is the second largest use of energy in most commercial spaces. Turn them off for a simple and effective way to conserve resources. And don't forget about desk lamps, overhead lights and those in common spaces such as kitchens, bathrooms and hallways.

Unplug - Many items still use electricity even when turned “off”... this is called "phantom power." Do you use any of these following items: Computers and monitors, TV/DVD player, water cooler, coffee maker, mini-fridge (please defrost), microwave, printers/copy machine, clock/radio/CD player/iHome and other personal appliances. Please be sure to turn them off or, even better, turn off the power strips that control them.

Heating and Air Conditioning - This is the largest energy user in most buildings, so why heat or cool unoccupied space? Whether the office shares a thermostat or if you have a personal unit at your work station, set it way down to 60, if possible. Also, please tighly close those windows.