The debate over global warming continues to flourish, and scientists are becoming increasingly concerned about the pressure humans are putting on the environment. Our energy consumption is a major problem, but is one that we can help solve by taking certain steps. Purchasing energy-efficient products is one of the easiest things we can do to help. Not only does this save energy, but it saves money as well. The Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy have worked together to help efficiency-conscious consumers by creating the Energy Star product label. Energy Star products are as energy efficient as current technology allows. There are energy-efficient options for everything, from lighting and appliances to the material we use to build our homes.

Lights

Appliances

  • Business Guide to Energy Savings & Sustainability: An online guide from the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy.
  • Appliances and Home Electronics: A guide to shopping for energy-efficient appliances for the home.
  • Find Energy Star Products: A list of products that meet the requirements of the Energy Star label, compiled by the EPA and the U.S. Department of Energy.
  • How to Buy an Energy-Efficient Home Appliance: A guide to buying energy-efficient appliances, by the Federal Trade Commission.
  • Efficient Appliances Save Energy—and Money: Tips on how to save energy and money when buying energy-efficient appliances.
  • Small Appliances: An article that includes a chart outlining the typical energy consumption of small appliances.
  • Watch Out for "Energy Vampires": A guide to spotting the "energy vampire" appliances in your home.
  • Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency: A website that catalogs government incentives for using renewable energy or energy-efficient appliances, state by state.
Water

Homes

Renewable Energy

Oil, coal, and natural gas have been important energy sources for over a century, but they will eventually run out. The international community has tried to find an alternative fuel source that is both clean and renewable. Each alternative energy source has its advocates and its detractors. Biofuels, like ethanol, have already partially replaced gasoline in some markets. Solar and wind energy are being used all over the world at an increasing rate, but they are not yet viable energy sources: Each has its benefits, but the success of each depends heavily on environmental and climate factors.

Bioenergy

Solar Energy

Wind Energy

Sustainable Living

All the knowledge we have about the environment, alternative fuels, and eco-friendly technologies can help us foster a greener and more sustainable lifestyle. While "going green" might seem intimidating at first, by taking a series of small steps, we can develop some important green habits. Not everyone will be able to plant a garden or bike to work each day but reducing the amount we waste, via reuse of what we already have and recycling what we can, will make the planet a better place for all of us.

Going Green

  • Treehugger: "Green" news, forums, and guides to help you go green.
  • The New Ecologist: News and product reviews to help consumers make educated choices about eco-friendly products.
  • The Green Guide: Articles about the world we live in and tips for everyday green living.
Environment

Food

Getting Around

About the Author

Adrian Ludwig is a senior account executive at Crest Capital, where he captures incremental online sales typically lost by standard vendor finance programs. Adrian works in nearly every industry vertical, providing leases and loans for equipment, vehicles, and software. Check out his most popular piece: The Difference Between Good Debt and Bad Debt.