Everyday should be Earth Day

Our guest blogger today is Erin Pierce, who works for the Communications office at Department of Energy.

One thing I’ve learned since my start at the Department of Energy (DOE) is how important it is for individuals to get involved in protecting the environment. Innovative technologies are being developed—from alternative fuel sources that cut greenhouse gasses to wind turbines that power every home in Milford, Utah.

All of these technological advances are key to ensuring a sustainable future. But we can’t look forward to clean, toxic-free neighborhoods without the help of communities across America.

President Obama says, “As we continue to tackle our environmental challenges, it’s clear that change won’t come from Washington alone. It will come from Americans across the country who takes steps in their own homes and their own communities to make that change happen.”

So what can you do to help?

Enter Earth Day. April 22, 2010 marks the 40th anniversary. It’s a day to celebrate, volunteer and learn how we can do our part to conserve energy.

Take action in your home! Use energy-efficient compact fluorescent lightbulbs (CFL’s), unplug electronics not in use and invest in ENERGY STAR® Appliances. You’ll conserve energy and save money at the same time.

Students at the University of Central Florida made changes like these in their dorms and saved a whopping $27,000.

Visit the DOE Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Earth Day website for energy saving tips. Also visit our interactive Earth Day animation, where you can learn ways to save at home, how energy is being used efficiently in communities and how different energy sources are used across the country.

You can find Earth Day activities in your state on the Environmental Protection Agency’s Earth Day website. Visit Serve.gov for a listing of year-round volunteer activities focused on the environment.

And remember to Make Every Day, Earth Day!

Source: http://blog.usa.gov/roller/