I just got done talking to my sister and got more green enlightened! She told me how she replaced all her bulbs with the CFLs and immediately noticed a huge drop in energy use. I know many of you already have them and have either replaced all or are in the process. I had been thinking I would just replace mine as they burned out (not wanting to seem wasteful) but after talking to her, decided that it will be more beneficial to change them all out at once. Unlike her utility company, PG&E does not offer coupons or rebates for the CFLs, but they did have directions for disposal since the CFLs contain mercury.
They recommend going to www.earth911.org or call 1-877-earth911 to search by zip code for diposal options. Also, www.lamprecycle.org is another source. I went to Earth911 to check it out for us, and it's got a lot of information on various ways to be green. So, instead of telling you all what to do about CFL disposal, I am encouraging you to check out the site for all those other great tips and ideas! IKEA, and soon hopefully more retailers, also will take your burned out bulbs to recycle. (Hmmm... long drive to Emeryville for that, hopefully there's a closer option!)
Also, she let me know that plugs with the larger box end (and those, like my printer, where the box is further down the cord) draw the same amount of energy even if the appliance/equipment is not attached to it or turned on. These are like the ones for mobile phones, computers, camera chargers, etc... So unplug 'em ladies!! :-)
1 comment:
I've been meaning to post that about the chargers. And that Earth911 is a great resource! I'll add it to the Green Guides.
Post a Comment