What you can do

Living Sustainably

Tips

Energy

Use the Greenhouse Emissions Calculator to find out how much greenhouse gas your workplace currently emits, and how you can reduce this, by choosing GreenPower energy sources.
Switch appliances off at the power point, instead of leaving them on "stand by" when you leave for the day.
Install energy-efficient lighting and turn off lights when you leave an area.
You can conserve energy in your home by installing draft seals and weather stripping around doors and windows. This stops cold draughts in winter and can trap cool air in summer.
Reduce energy usage at home by shading hot windows in summer with curtains, awnings or trees. This can reduce heat absorption by up to 80%. In winter, heavy, lined curtains with pelmets will help trap heat.
Save energy by placing your fridge in a cool spot and ensure the coils get plenty of air circulation. Replace the door seal when necessary.
If you're going on holidays, save energy by emptying and turning off the fridge. Leave the door ajar.
For more energy-efficient cooking, use gas or a microwave. A microwave uses 70% less electricity. Avoid rapid boiling; keep lids on pots and simmer gently.
Turning off lights in rooms not in use.
If you use a dishwasher, turning it off before the drying cycle begins. By leaving the dishes to dry in the air, you will reduce your energy usage by around one third.
Washing your clothes in cold water reduces greenhouse gas emissions by up to 90%. Drying your clothes on the line and not the dryer saves energy and money!.
Use recycling services provided by your local council. Less energy is used to recycle aluminium, steel, paper and plastic than to produce them.
Because heating uses a lot of energy – Fixing dripping hot water taps and install water-saving devices.
Reduce your energy usage by planting deciduous trees (especially on the western side) for shade in summer and sun in winter.
Install a AAA-rated showerhead you can reduce both hot and cold water energy demands.
Use low energy light bulbs and appliances.
Make sure your computer, fax and printer are ENERGY STAR enabled. Most computer equipment has this energy-saving device built in, but is often not enabled and therefore not operating. A screen saver does not save energy.
Don't overheat your home. Every one degree increase in temperature is a 10% increase in heating bills and emissions.
Save energy by insulating your ceiling - 25% of heat loss occurs through it.
Investigate energy-efficient alternatives when designing and building a new home. By thoroughly insulating your home you can reduce heat loss by 63%.
Greenhouse gases can be reduced by using an Energy Smart water heater. As water heating can account for up to 50% of your home's total energy use, households can save money on energy bills while improving the environment.