Ten Tips For Going Green

1. Use energy efficient lighting systems and bulbs. According to Pacific Gas & Electric Company (PG&E), one compact fluorescent lamp (a small fluorescent bulb) reduces lighting costs by 75%.

2. Adjust power management functions on desktops and laptops.

3. Choose laptops over desktops. PG&E claims laptops use 90% less energy than desktops.

4. Choose products that bear the ENERGY STAR label. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates these products saved American homes and businesses $14 billion in energy costs in 2006.

5. Unplug chargers and turn off equipment that’s not in use. Otherwise they will continue to draw power.

6. Choose products such as paper and packaging that have a high degree of recycled content. Goods made from recycled material typically require less energy to produce than goods made from virgin materials, according to the EPA.

7. Conduct an internal energy audit to find out how much power you’re using and how much it’s costing you. Then devise a plan to reduce power consumption.

8. Increase your air conditioning trigger temperature by five degrees. According to PG&E, you’ll reduce your cooling costs by about 10 percent.

9. Stop spamming customers and prospects. Spam has a “massive carbon footprint,” according to SPAMFRIT.org, because it increases hardware usage, transportation costs, and waste.

10. Encourage carpooling and employee use of public transportation. For a great example, check out Adobe’s Commute Alternatives Program.