Q: We have been hearing a lot about the mercury in fluorescent (CFL) light bulbs, are they worth the switch from incandescent bulbs?

Jack: The objective in switching from incandescent to florescent (CFLs) bulbs is to cut down on energy usage.  The mercury levels in CFL bulbs are low enough to justify the savings; they decrease the energy usage by 75% and only emit 1.8 milligrams of mercury into the environment verses the 5.8 milligrams of incandescent bulbs.

Q: We purchase biodegradable products more often than not; does this help conserve landfill space?

Jack: Biodegradable products are defined as items that will completely decompose within a “reasonably short period of time,” but because most landfills are designed to keep out sunlight, air and moisture to prevent air and water pollution your best bet is to reduce the amount of solid waste you use. At the store look for items that use “post-consumer recycled” materials and recycle whenever possible.

Q: With warm weather around the corner, what are some energy saving tips for cooling your home?

Jack: A ceiling fan is the best investment for your home; it can cool your room 6 to 7 degrees and cost less than $10 a month. By circulating the air you will be able to turn up your A/C to save energy.

Drapes, blinds or shades also work to reflect heat from the house. Close those facing the sun (east in the morning, west in the evening) to keep the sun’s heat out and your home cool.

Finally, plant a tree or shrub to shade A/C unit. A unit operating in the shade uses less electricity. Trees, when properly placed around a house, can save between $100 and $250 annually in cooling and heating costs.

Q: How do large companies save on expenses like fuel emissions and miles driven?

Jack: The shortest distance between two points is not always the greenest. For example, UPS uses mapping software named “package flow” sophisticated enough to direct drivers and eliminate the number of left hand turns they make. This software helped the company shave 28.5 million miles off its delivery routes, resulting in a savings of roughly three million gallons last year, and reduced CO2 emissions by 31,000 metric tons.

Q: By unplugging all electronics and appliances when I am not using them how much energy am I saving? Is it worth the hassle?

Jack: Yes, it is true that energy is saved by unplugging those appliances not in use. Items such as fax machines, phone chargers, televisions and DVD players continue to suck power while you are out.
It may seem negligible, but over the long haul it adds up. According some studies, 5% to 10% of residential electricity use can be attributed to standby power. Quick Tip: Unplug what you can when you can, small adjustments make all the difference.

Do you have an environmental tip or trick you need debunked? Post your environmental question for Jack Johnson below.

This article was taken from the Brown Advantage newsletter. For the complete Brown Advantage you may download the pdf file, view the digital edition or sign up to receive future issues.