Simple Tips to Reduce Your Carbon Footprint

Following these simple tips adds up to big energy savings on campus!

Top 10 Tips to Save Energy
  • Switch it Off
    Turn off the lights when natural light is sufficient and when you leave the room. It’s that simple!
  • Climate Control
    Keep your temperature system on a moderate setting while you’re in the room.
  • Wasteful Windows
    Use your windows wisely! If your climate control system is on, shut them…if you need a little fresh air, turn off the heat or AC.
  • Minimize Plug Load
    Cut down the number of appliances you are running and you will save big on energy. For example, share your minifridge with roomates and minimize the number of printers in your office.
  • Phantom Power
    Did you know that many electronics continue using energy even when powered down? This is true of any charger, television, printer, etc. Use a power strip to easily unplug these electronics when not in use.
  • Give it a Rest
    Power your computer down when you’re away. A computer turned off uses at least 65% less energy than a computer left on or idle on a screen saver.
  • Take the Stairs
    Use the stairs as often as possible. Elevators consume electricity. You, on the other hand, do not.
  • Loaded Laundry
    Only do full loads of laundry and use the bright colors cycle whenever possible.
  • Shorter Showers
    Try to take shorter showers. The less hot water you use, the less energy is needed to heat the water.
  • Switch to CFLs
    Compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) use 75% less energy than incandescent and last up to 10 times longer.

A few more tips…

  • Conserve Paper
    Print and copy on two sides, save single-sided pages for notes, and print only what you need.
  • Recycle
    Take a few steps to a recycling center in your building to deposit aluminum cans, plastics, glass, office paper, newspaper, cardboard. Pickup of office electronics, bulk metal and surplus furniture can be arranged by contacting Facilities Work Management.
  • Promote Reuse
    Donate used cell phones and chargers, furniture clothing and cleaning and school supplies.
  • Get a Little Exercise
    Consider walking or riding a bike to campus if the distance is reasonable. Walk from you bus or subway stop to your office or lab. Faculty and staff carpoolers pay reduced or no fee to park on campus, depending on size of carpool. Learn More.

Even more resources…