In the world today, energy use and conservation is one of the most talked-about issues. Whether you live in a big city or out in the country, making the most of our resources and sustaining our way of life is not far from our minds. What does energy conservation mean for each of us, why is saving energy so important, and what can we do to save energy?
Energy Conservation Defined
Before we talk about how to conserve energy and the associated benefits, we need a good working definition. One of the most accepted definitions of energy conservation is a “reduction in the energy consumed in a process or system, or by an organization or society, through economy, elimination of waste, and rational use.” There is no one single method for saving energy, nor is there one place where we waste energy. Effective conservation happens when we focus on the big picture as well as our own homes.
Why Conserve Energy?
Surprisingly, many people ask that very question each day. For most of us, we won’t change our energy consumption habits unless we see the benefit. Saving money makes the most compelling argument for energy conservation. Taking action at home and on your daily commute makes a difference in how much you spend each year on energy. Conserving energy reduces the need to build more coal-fired or nuclear plants to meet demand, paid for with your tax dollars. Building fewer plants and using less energy also reduces the amount of pollution released into our air and water, preserving our environment and lowering our health risks. Finally, energy conservation now means more resources available for future generations. Coal, oil, and other non-renewable energy sources are depleting rapidly, and conservation provides the opportunity to find or create sources of renewable energy before these sources run out.
What You Can Do to Conserve
Saving energy is easier than you think! Simple steps such as turning off the TV, computer, and lights when not in use, and unplugging infrequently used appliances make a meaningful difference in your utility bill each month. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates homeowners can save 25% a month off their utility costs by implementing these steps. Take energy conservation a step further by using surge protectors to turn off electrical devices at the source, replace old or inefficient appliances, and install programmable thermostats for more efficient heating and cooling. For a greater impact consider a home energy audit that evaluates the heating and air-conditioning systems, improving home insulation, and solar screens. Many large cities offer rebate programs or other incentives for participating in programs like these. If you drive, make sure to properly inflate your tires and drive at a reasonable speed for the best gas efficiency.
We live in an interconnected world, where steps we take locally have a global impact. Make a few changes to your daily routine and reap the benefits of using less energy and spending less, too. Energy conservation will succeed when everyone works together to make a difference for our future.