Efficiency for a Brighter Future
Energy Star Day 2024
By Alyssa Jairam
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Have You Ever Heard About Energy Star Day? What Is This Day?
Energy Star Day is observed annually on 11th October and is dedicated to raising awareness about energy efficiency and the benefits of using Energy Star certified products. The Energy Star program was introduced by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 1992 during a period whereby business leaders and environmentalists recognized that economic growth and protection of the environment both go hand-in-hand. This day therefore aims at identifying and promoting energy-efficient products and practices to help consumers reduce energy consumption while saving money and protecting the environment.
What Is The Purpose of Energy Star Day?
The primary purpose of Energy Star Day is to encourage people globally to adopt energy-saving practices and to promote the use of energy-efficient appliances and technologies. It focuses on:
- Reducing energy consumption
- Lowering utility bills
- Protecting the environment
- Combating climate change by promoting energy-efficient living.
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Energy Star Savings Globally:
Since its inception in 1992, the Energy Star Program has helped families and businesses worldwide save over US$500 billion on energy bills and prevented more than 4 billion metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions into the atmosphere.
In 2020 alone, Energy Star certified products helped save around 230 billion kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity globally which is equivalent to preventing 170 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions. More than 6 billion Energy Star certified products have been sold globally which indicates the widespread adoption of energy-efficient technologies (Energy Star, 2020).
Environmental Impact, Innovation and Technology:
Energy Star products help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants which contribute to cleaner air and a healthier planet. These products also play a crucial role in addressing climate change by reducing the carbon footprint associated with energy consumption by promoting energy efficiency, encouraging consumers and businesses to reduce their energy use (which conserves valuable natural resources), and setting higher energy performance standards since manufacturers are encouraged to develop and market energy-efficient technologies that drive innovation in the industry.
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Ten Things You Can Do To Conserve Energy:
- Use Energy Star Certified Appliances: Replace old appliances such as refrigerators, washing machines, air conditioners, etc with Energy Star rated models which consume less electricity and water.
- Turn Off Lights When Not in Use: Make it a habit to turn OFF lights when leaving a room and switch to energy-efficient LED bulbs that use less electricity and last longer.
- Unplug Devices: Unplug electronics and chargers when not in use to avoid “phantom” energy consumption from devices in standby mode.
- Seal Air Leaks: Seal gaps and cracks around windows, doors and walls to prevent air leaks which can increase heating and cooling energy usage.
- Run Full Loads: Operate washing machines with full loads to maximize efficiency and to save both water and energy. Also, hang clothes outside in the sun to dry instead of using a drying as it saves about 3-5kW per load.
- Wash Clothes in Cold Water: Using cold water when doing the laundry reduces energy consumption by eliminating the need to heat water.
- Opt for Smart Power Strips: These allow you to automatically shut off power to devices that are not in use thereby reducing standby energy consumption.
- Use Energy Management Options on Computers: Set your computer to ‘Hibernate’ after about half an hour of inactivity as it consumes less energy as compared to restarting your computer again. Also use ‘Sleep Mode’ instead of ‘Stand By Mode.’ These options can be found in the Control Panel setting on your device.
- Routine Maintenance: Wipe the dust off your bulbs as it decreases their illumination. Also check that the door of your refrigerator closes tightly to prevent air leaks. This can be easily done by putting a currency note between the closed doors and pulling the bill out. If it comes off easily, it indicates the need for repairs.
- Install Renewable Energy Technologies: In the Caribbean region where solar energy is available year-round, install solar water heaters and solar panels to power lights to reduce your energy consumption and save money.
To learn more about Energy Conservation, and its impact on global efforts to achieve net-zero, check out this KCNZCP article: https://kenson.co.tt/energy-conservation-the-first-step-to-moving-to-carbon-net-zero/
Image Source: GreenMatch
Conclusion:
Energy Star Day which is celebrated yearly on 11th October highlights the importance of making conscious choices in our everyday lives to conserve energy, save money and educate persons on sustainable living. This day will continue to emphasize the importance of energy efficiency in combating climate change by adopting simple energy-saving habits and investing in Energy Star certified products so that individuals and businesses can significantly reduce their energy use, save on utility costs and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Want to learn more about how Kenson Group is promoting a greener environment? Discover some of the key activities through our Carbon Net Zero Capability Portfolio here: https://bit.ly/3v5K9pk