The Green Theme

Reduce Energy Use

• Americans use way too much fossil fuel energy.
• The average person in the U.S. generates five times the carbon emissions of the average person in China, and two hundred times that of a person in the poorest countries.
• Scientists worldwide report that rapidly escalating climate change is being caused mainly by human activities rather than by naturally occurring fluctuations, and they project dire consequences as a result.
• Though the Earth is already experiencing many negative consequences of global warming, it is not too late to take actions to significantly reduce our energy use and its consequences.
• Individuals and nations around the world have recently awakened to the seriousness of the problems, and have begun tightening their energy belts.
• Churches have a responsibility to do this too.
• Changes we make that reduce energy consumption in our churches do make a difference.
• We should cut energy use every way possible:
  • Turn off lights when they are not in use.
  • Use compact florescent light bulbs.
  • Turn down the heat.
  • Turn the air-conditioning off or to a higher temperature.
  • Purchase “Energy Star” appliances, electronics, lighting, and other products. (Energy Star is a joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy to aid consumers in saving money and protecting the environment.)
  • Plant shade trees.
  • Position windows for fair-weather breezes.
  • Turn off computers, printers, copiers, and televisions when they are not in use.
  • Connect electronic equipment to power strips. Turn off the power strips when the equipment is not in use and overnight.
  • Unplug cell phone chargers when not in use because they can also draw phantom load power.
  • Car pool.
  • Walk, ride a bicycle, or take public transportation.
  • Consolidate errands and driving trips.
  • Eliminate unnecessary driving and flying trips.

Source: Eco-faith: creating & sustaining green congregations, Charlene Hosenfeld (Pilgrim Press, 2009)