I like to think I am conscious of what resources I use and try my best to live in a sustainable way. The assignment this week was to unplug, conserve and observe the amount of energy I use in a 24-hour time frame, I chose Friday 4/26 8:00 a.m.- Saturday 8:00 a.m.
After waking up I performed the following Home Energy Reduction Steps:
Daytime:
- Unplugged entertainment system power surge cord; DVD, TV, WII, WiFi Router, Laptop Charger
- Unplugged all other devices; Alarm Clock, Garbage Disposal, Mobile Charger, (2) Lamps, SoniCare Toothbrush
- Opened all windows-Allowing fresh air and natural light in
- Took a quick 5 minute shower
- Walked to the store instead of driving
Nighttime:
- I only used my lamps with CFL bulbs in the rooms I was in at the moment
- Removed 2 out of 3 light bulbs in my bathroom light fixture
Devices I had to leave plugged in:
Overall, it was a pretty good feeling to unplug, it prompted me to read, work on projects and to try and keep myself entertained without the use of electronics. It was shocking at first to unplug all the electronics, especially once my mobile and laptop exhausted battery life in the evening. The exercise also made me really aware of how many wasted standby power devices (vampires) I own. I will definitely continue to unplug devices I am not using ,especially when I go on vacation. Unfortunately other than shorter showers and opening windows there isn't anything I could give up permanently. I plan on cutting my car usage and start walking or using my bicycle more often.
Looking around my home I realized I could do a lot more to be more energy efficient. Over the weekend I purchased a Power Smart Tower to help stop "vampire" electronics from draining power in my apartment.
I live in an apartment so I am limited to how much I can really do but if I had the money or my own house I would invest in Resource/Energy Efficient Appliances; Refrigerator, Dual-Flush Toilet, Stove and lighting.
I want to start a Guerrilla Gardening Troop in Riverside, anyone interested? What is Guerrilla Gardening?
Guerrilla gardening is the practice of reclaiming abandoned land (which
the gardeners do not own) and "bombing" it with plants, fruits and
vegetables. Some do it under the cover of night, while others prefer
doing it in broad daylight. There are different motives for why people
do it, whether it be to beautify a neglected area, provide food, be part
of the urban agriculture revolution, or to feel a sense of community
with those around them. Who is with me?!!??!?!
Boxed Water Is Better
Imagine drinking from these instead of toxic plastic bottles.
A sleek and modern rainwater collector, giving sustainability a clean and modern look.
