New Energy Watch:

Here's a fine video about the risks of action or inaction on global warming, by a high-school science teacher named Craven. Message: It's not worth debating whether global warming exists or doesn't exist, or whether mankind has caused it or not caused it. It's only worth figuring out whether to take action. Craven's arguments and logic grid should allow everyone on both sides of the aisle to agree on the wisest course.

This is the kind of high-school science teacher we all need. And lest you think he's all ego, be aware that he put a strong first draft of this video online, knowing he would take his lumps in critiques, and soliciting those lumps so that he could refine his arguments. That's science, and logic, and passion. Spread the word. Here's the url:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mF_anaVcCXg

Do the Math

With some simple arithmetic and the help of our Gasoline Energy Equivalents and Conversion Calculator, you can relate energy from different sources in varying amounts. A gallon of regular gasoline is a good benchmark to work from; it's familiar to everyone, yet its energy potential, compared to other sources like pounds of coal, therms of natural gas, or kilowatts of electricity, can be surprising.
We also have a Therms & Barrels Calculator that lets you compare equivalents related to the energy in a barrel of oil.
When thinking of energy use and potential waste and savings, keep in mind the concept of "pure" energy, no matter how it's expressed or what source it comes from. The important thing is how much energy is needed to do a specific amount of work. Energy consciousness means thinking about how efficiently you can apply the energy to the work, ranging from how you manage your water heater to how you approach and leave a stoplight in your car.
No one can be entirely energy efficient, and we all have thresholds of patience, comfort, and enthusiasm. But energy consciousness itself, and the formation of at least some good personal energy habits, will make a big difference when we put all our habits together. Other good calculators:
Soltrex Interactive Energy Calculator
EIA Energy Kids Page Calculator
U.S. Department of Energy Calculators

One Good Move...

Change a light bulb from incandescent to compact fluorescent. Just do that one thing, and you'll make a significant contribution. No kidding. Here's a link to some information about compact fluorescent bulbs on this site. For all sorts of other simple ideas, visit Precalculated Energy Savings.
NOTE: Compact fluorescent lights contain small amounts of mercury -- poisonous to the environment if dumped in a landfill. Do not throw these bulbs (properly called lamps) away when they finally wear out. They need to be recycled. Large retailers like Wal-Mart and Ikea accept used bulbs for recycling.
To find out how best to recycle in your locale, go to www.earth911.org and enter your zip code. This is, by the way, a superb website for all things environmental – active, committed, and well-designed.

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