This is a guest written article from my friends at Price Pirate. I’ll add my Energy Boomer comments to it at the bottom.
In a world where technology drives everything from entertainment to commerce, it is difficult to get people thinking about the environmental impact of such a world. Almost every person has a cell phone, not to mention a myriad of other gadgets, from iPods to gaming systems and larger gadgets: microwaves, home appliances and televisions, even cars.
Many of these electronic gadgets are produced using potentially damaging chemicals and often environmentally un-friendly manufacturing practices. Of course you can't withdraw from the world of technology altogether.
How do you make informed decisions when buying gadgets? All it takes is a little forethought and upkeep.
- Research. Many manufacturers are constantly improving their methods in order to contribute to environmental efforts and reduce their carbon footprints. The Internet is a valuable tool for this. Try to find a third-party site such as watchdogs Greenpeace who often publish lists on their website praising those who've made a proper effort. Making this a major priority when buying gadgets is relatively easy as you'll often find the most cutting-edge technology is made by the most green-aware companies.
- Recharge. From Gameboys to remote controls, everything needs batteries. If your gadget comes with its own rechargeable battery, that's great. If not, invest in some rechargeable batteries. They reduce landfill waste and will also save you money.
- Recycle. Many phone companies run campaigns to allow people to recycle their old cell phones. The materials are then collected and used again. Old computers can also be recycled. Find out when upcoming drives to recycle electronics will be held and gather your gadgets (and your friends').
- Be Responsible. Before heading out to buy that latest updated gadget, question your needs. Manufacturers stagger their products simply so people will feel the need to buy a new one every six months. If your phone still works, why do you need it replaced? Old appliances will often outlast their younger, flashier competitors. Many microwaves bought in the 1980s are still working today, as are gaming consoles.
- Turn it off. There is no greater waste than the steady leak of energy that occurs when appliances are all switched on and nobody's using them. It takes a fraction of a second before and after you use an appliance to flick the switch and unplug it. This will save you a surprising amount of energy, not to mention money.
Nothing will solve the problem completely, but by making informed decisions and thinking about your purchases and the use of your gadgets, you can do a lot more for the environment than you have been. The amount of money you'll save is an added bonus.
Comments from the Energy Boomer:
Keeping appliances many years can be a two edged sword. Yes you get your monies worth if you use some appliances for many years. Our 1987 vintage Amana microwave oven is just now starting to fail. It was a very good investment.
My cell phone is almost 7 years old. It still places and receives phone calls just find so I don’t have any reason to replace it.
On the other hand some appliances have greatly improved in energy efficiency over the years. Refrigerators are an example.
Refrigerators used to be one of a home’s biggest energy users. But, improvements in refrigeration technology mean that they use less energy than a big screen TV.
Recycling an old refrigerator and getting a new one is a good investment.
Turning any appliance all the way off when it is not being used will always save money on your energy bill.
This is a guest written article from my friends at Price Pirate. I’ll add my Energy Boomer comments to it at the bottom.
