How can we save energy in our daily lives?
Climate change is a man-made problem. The vigorous, indiscriminate and selfish exploitation of the earth’s resources for human development has led to this shameful situation. The unconscious and egocentric approach has not only affected the climate but also the survival of the self. Cold wars and rebellions are the tactics used to seize control of limited land, fuel, and water resources. Disputes arise even between individuals over ownership of real estate and money belonging to their ancestors. However, many people do not exercise the necessary care and vigilance to maintain the assets thus acquired, and end up wasting money and materials. Let’s use energy efficiently by organizing things according to priority. Here, instances of daily life are presented along with ways we can preserve precious energy.
House. Electricity is the versatile input for our life. We have to turn off lights and devices when they are no longer needed. Ironing clothes in a single pass will save a lot of energy. All items must be ready to cook at one time so that fuel can be saved. Air conditioners, refrigerators, and geysers consume more energy due to poor maintenance and care. Older, less efficient bulbs and tubes should be replaced with the LED type. Low-cost, pollution-free solar energy can be harnessed to generate electricity.
Motor vehicles have to be serviced regularly to reduce waste from low tire pressure and poor quality lubricants and fuels. The water from the bathrooms, bedrooms and kitchen can irrigate the gardens. Organic waste such as vegetable, fruit and paper remains decompose as compost. Replacing an object in the same place where it was taken translates into saving time and energy while avoiding the stress of not finding it when it is required. Old clothes can be given to the poor and to orphanages. Metal scraps and old unused items not only turn into money, but also save valuable space.
Office. A smart office produces more at a lower cost. Reduced working hours and working during the day contribute greatly to energy savings. Many offices have a five-day week for better productivity. Paperless communication and document storage is possible with digital technology. In fact, the limited papers are recycled for internal use. The dependence on air conditioners is minimized through fans. Efficient lighting with good ventilation is guaranteed to save energy.
audience point. At the societal level, the waste of rainwater through runoff can be controlled by diverting it to wells, tanks and dams. The integration of the rivers will produce lasting benefits of flood control, availability and increased productivity. Some cities follow a particular day in a week as ‘Car Free Day’. Car sharing, cycling and the public transport system aim to reduce traffic congestion and pollution and conserve energy. The sewage treatment plants and solid waste management allow recycling water and garbage. The roads are ugly with the recycling of waste plastics.
Energy saved is energy gained. Reducing our spending of money by itself does not mean savings. Avoidance of unwanted and lavish spending also results in frugality. Such savings in all spheres of life would be a great investment for the future.