Energy Saving Tips for Summer
By Sherrie Gruder
The heat of summer is upon us and there are ways to stay comfortable and reduce your energy use at the same time. In addition to saving money, conserving energy and using energy more wisely will reduce your contribution of greenhouse gas emissions, mercury and other toxins that come from the coal burning power plants that power your air conditioner, lights and appliances.
Learning how you use energy allows you to target how
to increase energy efficiency and conservation and
reduce carbon dioxide emissions.
This pie chart shows that heating and cooling is
almost half of household energy use; water heating
the next biggest use at 13 per cent, followed by lighting
at ten per cent. The electricity used to power
various appliances makes up the remainder.
Energy saving tips fall into three main categories: building structure, appliances and behavioral choices.
- Hire a professional to inspect, clean, tune air conditioner. This should be done at minimum every three years and can increase the efficiency of your system by 25 per cent.
- Turn up your thermostat for the hours you are not in the house.
- Insulate your attic- R-50 optimum. A well-insulated attic helps to keep the heat out of your living space (and the cold too).
 Turn off or replace inefficient appliances and light bulbs. They use energy plus create excess heat. ENERGY STAR appliances are significantly more efficient than old appliances with an ENERGY STAR refrigerator using as little energy as one light bulb for a year. Compact fluorescent light bulbs are readily available in many styles including dimmable and 3-way, use 75 per cent less energy and produce 75 per cent less heat that incandescent bulbs. Also, there are cash-back rewards for them from Focus on Energy for residents whose utility participates in the Focus program. For more information go to http://www.focusonenergy.com/Residential/Lighting/cfls.aspx. By installing compact fluorescent light bulbs throughout your house, you can save an average of $100 off your annual electricity bill.
- Install motion or light sensors on outdoor lights.
- Keep heat out and reduce your peak cooling demand by 10-15%.
- Use window shades to keep the heat of direct sun out.
- Consider more reflective, light-colored roofing and siding products when adding on to your home or replacing an existing roof.
- Increase your comfort range with fans. People feel more comfortable when there’s moving air and often can tolerate higher temperatures when a fan is operating. Ask about the energy draw of the fan, compare models for energy use, and ask for Energy Star rated fans. If the fan you choose has lights, be sure it accommodates compact fluorescent light bulbs!
- Set your water heater temperature to 120 degrees.
- Run your dishwasher and clothes washer when full and at night in off-peak hours.
- Consider installing solar hot water heat to offset up to 60% of your household water heating use. For more information and to learn whether this is a viable option for your house, family size and use, contact Focus on Energy’s renewable energy program at www.focusonenergy.com or call toll free 1 800 762-7077.
Factsheet Guides Forklift Buyers
There is a new SHWEC factsheet available entitled, “Forklifts: Operational and Environmental Impacts.” This document discusses the specifications that should be considered before purchasing a forklift, while keeping in mind user health and environmental concerns. The factsheet outlines cost, efficiency, utility, safety, and environmental issues when comparing internal combustion fork trucks with electric and hydrogen fueled fork trucks. To view this information, go to: http://www4.uwm.edu//shwec/publications/cabinet/p2/Forklifts1.pdf
Product Stewardship Initiatives Moving Forward
Steve Brachman
A recent meeting of the Midwest Product Stewardship Council (MPSC) highlighted progress across the Midwest to encourage product stewardship. The Council, representing leaders from Iowa, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin, reported efforts at the state level:
- WISCONSIN - reported that local governments are being recruited to participate in the MPSC effort. Numerous solid waste boards are supportive and two local government agencies are developing a funding proposal to support outreach efforts in Wisconsin. Dunn County is taking the lead and will be submitting a grant for support of the WI effort; a recycling demonstration grant will fund a Wisconsin Product Stewardship Council/Chapter coordinator with a focus on educating and recruiting local governments and coordinating state efforts.
State staff is also working with Minnesota on beverage recovery initiative. This effort will include planning 2-4 stakeholder meetings with the goal of 80% recovery by 2012 via an industry memorandum of understanding (MOU). Wisconsin is also finalizing the organization’s outreach brochure. Finally, E-waste legislation will be reconsidered in spring, 2009.
- Minnesota – the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has been directed by the legislature to develop a comprehensive product stewardship approach by Jan. 15, 2009, rather than taking a product by product approach. A paint stewardship bill failed due to a veto by the Governor last year; however, the paint industry is still willing to pilot a demonstration program in Minnesota. Other products being reviewed include gypsum products, mattresses, pharmaceuticals, and CFLs.
- Iowa - reported that mercury thermostat legislation has passed and manufacturers are submitting plans to meet the product stewardship goals. A mercury containing lamp study bill was also passed which directs a plan be developed for a comprehensive program by Jan. 1, 2009. A bottle bill committee is also being formulated with a focus on comprehensive recycling.
- Michigan – reported that there are many piecemeal initiatives (such a mercury thermometers), but product stewardship is not an umbrella approach currently in the state of Michigan.
The US EPA also reported on activities in Region 5. A cell phone recycling program has started as part of the Plug In program, which has involved manufacturers and retailers. New grants are being awarded for product stewardship as well. Region 5 is also participating in the paint stewardship program. Finally, over 5 million pills were collected on Earth Day as part of the Earth Day Challenge.
Staff from the Solid Waste Management Coordinating Board (SWMCB), a consortium of Twin Cities metro counties, led a discussion regarding ways to increase local government involvement. Key barriers to participation were identified including: lack of time; budgetary problems; lack of understanding by local officials; local opposition to new government regulations of business, and need for coordination and state leadership at a broader level. Opportunities to increase local government buy-in include documenting cost savings and environmental impacts generated by product stewardship initiative, such as Minnesota's potential saving of $4-5 million due to a paint stewardship initiative. Supporting legislative initiatives, design for the environment and affirmative procurement approaches also represent opportunities for local governments.
Meeting participants reviewed progress on national dialogues hosted by the Product Stewardship Institute, including fluorescent lamps and pharmaceuticals. From the April fluorescent meeting came a broad recommendation to ban landfilling of all fluorescents; this group will meet again in July in Seattle. The June pharmaceutical meeting in San Francisco, with more than 120 participants, represented the largest dialogue to date. Challenges identified include: low attendance by manufacturers (only Roach and Pfizer); lack of attendance by the US Drug Enforcement Agency, while Pharma presented information that there is no affect on wildlife or human health. There was broad interest in research initiatives; next meeting in DC will focus on regulatory issues. A sharps dialogue is also taking place.
Next steps for the MPSC were also discussed. In terms of funding, the MPSC has focused on identifying a coordinator. All currently participating states also participate in the Midwest Association of Recycling Officials (MACRO), which is willing to provide some administrative support. The Product Policy Institute has offered to do fundraising/grantsmanship as well, similar to the assistance provided to California, to provide outreach services.
Wisconsin Clean Sweep Funding Program Announced
The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection (DATCP) announced that $900,000 in grant funds have been released for the 2009 Wisconsin Clean Sweep Program. Grant application materials are available at http://cleansweep.wi.gov/ . 2009 grant application materials must be postmarked or returned by July 25, 2008.
Wisconsin Clean Sweep offers annual, competitive grants for counties and municipalities wishing to receive financial assistance to collect and dispose household, agricultural, and business hazardous wastes. DATCP expects to release a separate RFP for 2009 prescription drug grants in late summer or early fall.
Keen competition is anticipated for 2009 Clean Sweep grants. Counties and municipalities interested in applying for grants are encouraged to carefully review all materials before applying and then complete the application in as much detail as possible. The cover letter provides critical background information for applicants. Applicants are encouraged to use Clean Sweeps to offer as many hazardous waste, solid waste, and recycling services as possible. Should questions arise during the grant application process, contact Roger Springman, Clean Sweep Program Manager, 608-224-4545.
Air Issues in Wisconsin
The June 2008 issue of Air Matters newsletter (volume 3, issue 3), is now available online at http://dnr.wi.gov/air/pubinfo/airmatters/200806.html.
Articles include:
* Potawatomi Reservation Receives Class I Designation
* Kewaunee County Meets Air Standards
* Hazecam Operations Resume at Mayville and Milwaukee
* Daily Air Hotline Continues Operation
* Climate Change Briefing Provided to NR Board
* Winners of 2007 Wisconsin Partners for Clean Air Award
* Air Management Reports to NR Board on General and Registration Permits
* New Air Quality and Health Publications Available
Also, supporting documents on the mercury air emissions rule revisions, which were to be considered at the Natural Resources Board meeting June 25 are available at: http://dnr.wi.gov/air/toxics/mercury/rule.htm In a statement from the DNR: “The Department believes the rule meets the Governor's objective of a 90% reduction of mercury emissions in a cost-effective manner that also achieves reduction of other critical air pollutants. The rule provides for significant public health benefits, while minimizing impacts on electric reliability and rate payers. It also positions the state to meet EPA's new standards for ozone and particulate matter, with the dual benefit of safeguarding Wisconsin's citizens and positioning Wisconsin's businesses to grow without the burden of non-attainment designations in the future.”
Wonder What it is Like to Drive a Fuel Cell Car?
Nicohla Groom, a staff writer for Reuters News agency offers an interesting assessment of her opportunity recently to drive a Chevrolet Equinox Fuel Cell car for four days in the Los Angeles, California area. The full story,” Four Days at the Wheel of a Hydrogen Car” is available through the Planet Ark daily electronic newsletter. http://planetark.com/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=48900&newsdate=20-Jun-2008
Compact Fluorescent Light (CFL) Recycling Gets a Big Boost
Home Depot began a national take back program for used CFLs in nearly 2,000 stores throughout the US. Home Depot joins numerous Wisconsin hardware stores and other retailers providing a free recycling option for CFLs. To find a retailer near you, check out the Focus on Energy web site at http://www.focusonenergy.com/Resources/Find-a-Retailer.aspx and choose 'CFL Recycling' as the store type in the drop down box.
EPA Finalizes Amendment to the F019 Hazardous Waste Listing
EPA is amending the F019 hazardous waste listing to facilitate the use of aluminum in automobiles, light trucks and utility vehicles. F019 is one of EPA's F-code Resource Conservation and Recovery Act hazardous waste listings, which include waste that is generated from common industrial and manufacturing processes. The amendment excludes from hazardous waste regulation F019 waste generated in the auto manufacturing industry provided the waste: 1) is not placed outside on the land prior to shipment to a landfill for disposal; and 2) is disposed of at an appropriately lined landfill. Information on the final amendment for F019 wastewater treatment sludge: http://www.epa.gov/epaoswer/hazwaste/id/f019/f019.htm
New EPA Guide to Help Businesses Confront Climate Challenge
 EPA is releasing a new resource, A Business Guide to U.S. EPA Climate Partnership Programs, for businesses committed to addressing the risks and opportunities associated with climate change. The guide features profiles on 35 EPA climate-change related partnership programs, as well as a handy table so companies can look up programs most appropriate for their industry and business objectives. Each program profile defines the environmental value delivered by the program and the business case for participating, such as cost savings, operational efficiency, reduced business risk, new or expanded markets, enhanced reputation and brand protection.
EPA developed the guide in consultation with Businesses for Social Responsibility (BSR), a nonprofit business association. BSR, which provides practical resources for businesses seeking sustainable solutions, is promoting the guide to its 250 members and other Global 1000 enterprises. For copies of this guide and for more information about EPA Partnership Programs, visit: http://www.epa.gov/partners For more information about BSR, visit: http://www.bsr.org
Green Buildings on the Rise
Green building continues to gain momentum as it demonstrates numerous opportunities to improve the impacts of buildings on the environment and health. To acknowledge this growing trend and EPA's expanded role in it, EPA has released a new video on green buildings in its Green Scene series. EPA also recently issued a new green building strategy to facilitate the mainstream adoption of green building practices.
Understanding the benefits of green building on people is important, as Americans spend nearly 90 percent of their time in buildings. Currently, buildings are responsible for nearly 40 percent of U.S. energy use and about 40 percent of U.S. carbon dioxide emissions, the primary greenhouse gas. But there are many opportunities to reduce these impacts in the buildings where we live, work and play. To view the Green Scene: http://www.epa.gov/multimedia/playercontents/video/greenscene22/greenbuilding.html
and EPA's Green Building Program: http://www.epa.gov/greenbuilding
Save on Summer Cooling Costs through Use of Programmable Thermostats
EPA is launching an effort to help Americans save on their summer cooling bills with advice on how to properly program their thermostat. The Energy Star qualified programmable thermostats can save money on energy bills and help fight global warming by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. If consumers manage their heating and cooling schedules accordingly, a programmable thermostat can save about $180 a year on home energy bills. You can program your thermostat by:
- Raising your home’s usual temperature setting by 7 degrees when you’re away and 4 degrees when you’re asleep
- Use the “Vacation” and “Hold” features to manage temperatures while you’re away from home for an extended period
- Resist the urge to override the thermostat settings drastically, as this will not cool your home any faster and can cause your system to work harder, costing more on your energy bills.
EPA is also providing consumers with important tips and resources to help them get their energy use on the right track through the Energy Star web site at this location. http://www.energystar.gov/pts Businesses can also benefit from the proper use of programmable thermostats and facility controls, particularly during the summer months. Learn more about programmable thermostats and other tips to save energy in the workplace this summer at: http://www.energystar.gov/bizcooling
Water Saving Homes Are Coming Soon
 Homeowners can save water by using WaterSense label products, and in the near future new homes can have WaterSense built into them. EPA is asking for comment on a WaterSense draft specification for water-efficient single-family new homes. Once the criteria are finalized, new homes that meet them can be certified and labeled under the WaterSense program. The specification is designed to ensure not only sustainable, efficient water use but also a high level of performance satisfaction.
WaterSense labeled new homes will combine WaterSense labeled products with other water-efficient fixtures and practices to reduce the amount of water used by approximately 20 percent. Homes must meet criteria in three areas: indoor water use, outdoor water use and homeowner education. Third-party inspectors will certify that homes meet all of the criteria before they will be given a WaterSense label.
With the announcement of this draft water-efficient new homes specification, EPA is inviting all interested parties to provide comments until July 21, 2008. If you have questions contact the WaterSense Helpline at (866) WTR-SENS (987-7367). To comment or more information go to: http://www.epa.gov/watersense/specs/homes.htm or for general information on WaterSense go to: http://www.epa.gov/watersense/
New Report Available on Ecosystems and Climate Change
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has released a report that can help reduce the potential impact of climate change on estuaries, forests, wetlands, coral reefs, and other sensitive ecosystems. The report, entitled Preliminary Review of Adaptation Options for Climate-Sensitive Ecosystems and Resources, identifies strategies to protect the environment as these changes occur and is available at
http://cfpub.epa.gov/ncea/cfm/recordisplay.cfm?deid=180143
The Office of Research and Development’s Global Change Research Program: http://www.epa.gov/ord/npd/globalresearch-intro.htm The U.S. Climate Change Science Program (CCSP): http://www.climatescience.gov/
July 12,2008 Northern Wisconsin Renewable Energy Fair. Ladysmith, WI. Join Focus on Energy at the first ever Northern Wisconsin Renewable Energy Fair. The one-day event at the Rusk County Fair grounds will bring together renewable energy experts in the back yard of Northern Wisconsin residents. More information on the calendar at www.focusonenergy.com.
July 19-20, 2008 Hybridfest at Dane County Fair, Alliant Energy Center, Madison, WI. For complete information visit http://www.hybridfest.com/
September 17,2008 SE2 Conference of the WI Green Building Alliance. Country Springs Hotel, Waukesha. A conference on the decision driving issues, risks and benefits related to green building. Register on line beginning July 15 at www.wgba.org/se2.html
Oct. 4, 2008 Wisconsin Solar Tour. Homes and business all across Wisconsin. Owners throw open their doors to let people see how renewable energy is practical, reliable and affordable in today’s economy. Although it is officially called the Wisconsin Solar Tour, sites include all sorts of renewable energy technologies and other innovative features. Sponsored by the Midwest Renewable Energy Association. More information at http://www.the-mrea.org.
Oct 6-8,2008 8th Annual BioCycle Conference on Renewable Energy from Organics Recycling. Middleton, WI. More information on the calendar at www.focusonenergy.com
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