Each time you flip a light switch on and off, you’re using electricity and affecting the environment. According to the World Resources Institute, over 20% of the electricity used in the U.S. is for lighting. Reduce your lighting footprint with the following tips:
- Use energy-efficient bulbs: Next time your light bulb burns out, opt for a light-emitting diode (LED) bulb. The initial cost will be higher than that of incandescent, but it ends up saving you money in the long run. LED bulbs last thousands of hours longer and will help you save on your electric bill by using less electricity.
- Conserve regularly: Even when using efficient bulbs, it doesn’t make sense to light a room when no one is in it. Make sure to turn lights off every time you leave a room, regardless of the type of light bulb used. Consider investing in dimmers, motion sensors, and timers to reduce the amount of electricity being consumed. During sunlight hours, open the blinds and use natural lighting. Unplug lamps and other lighting when possible, since they use energy by simply being plugged in.
- Practice proper disposal: Incandescent and LED bulbs are mixed materials, but do not contain any toxic materials, so they can be thrown in the trash. CFLs contain hazardous mercury and are accepted at Recycle Utah.
- Inform your friends: Share your lighting knowledge with your friends and family to help reduce environmental impact!
Recycle Utah, your community non-profit drop-off recycling center, provides these weekly tips. Visit their website for more information – www.recycleutah.org.