A Halloween Tip: Reduce "Vampire" Electronic Waste

Appliances, cell-phone chargers and electronics consume energy even when they’re not in use. This flaw has earned these items the nickname “vampire” sources, because they are believed to contribute to as much as 10 percent of a household’s energy use. And not only does this wasted energy cost you money, but it contributes to our pollution problem. Unplugging items that are not in use is the best way to control this unnecessary waste and cut costs. New “smart” power strips on the market also help reduce energy waste via a variety of techniques, but ultimately, your electronics turn on when they’re needed and don’t use energy when they’re turned off.

Find out more at http://www.treehugger.com/files/2005/12/smart_power_str.php

**This tip is produced as part of my role as a member of Cleveland Clinic's Office for a Healthy Environment. As the editor of our weekly newsletter for employees, I often include information about our Office for a Healthy Environment. I'm also a member of our green team, which is working to make healthy changes for our employees, patients and environment.