This Sunday April 22 is Earth Day, a day where environmental issues take the global stage. This is the 42nd year Earth Day has been observed and this year’s theme is “Mobilize the Earth.” From the website: “The Earth Day 2012 campaign is designed to provide people with the opportunity to unite their voices in a call for a sustainable future and direct them toward quantifiable outcomes, using vehicles such as petitions, the Billion Acts of Green; campaign, and events.” And of course you know that technology has you covered for Earth Day as well. Here are five ways to use tech to go green:
- Get a laptop and go wireless – Laptops use significantly less energy than desktops (to the tune of almost 80% less) and the advances made in processing speed and storage put them on par with larger systems for most computing needs.
- Use cloud storage – With cloud storage, you eliminate the need to use an external hard drive, CDs, DVDs, or even paper to archive data, thus saving energy in the home or office and potentially keeping more trash out of landfills.
- Recycle old electronics – Gazelle.com is one of many websites that offer to buy your old tech gear. Answer a few questions to get a free offer for your laptop/smartphone/tablet, and even get free shipping to the company if your gadget is worth more than $1. A good way to make a couple of bucks if you’re ready to upgrade this Sunday or anytime of the year. You can also always donate your old cell phone to organizations that help victims of domestic violence or U.S. troops.
- Check out the live streaming Earth Day activities by Toshiba featuring Mario Armstrong or NASA to get inspiration and more green tips (but watch it on your laptop!).
- Download the Verde app for iPad – this app will help you figure out how much electricity you use in your home through appliances, light bulbs, televisions, etc. and then make suggestions on how you can reduce your carbon footprint. You’ll also be saving money in a couple of different ways. Your electric bill will go down, and the app is free until Earth Day (normally $4.99).
So now you can stay on the grid and go green at the same time! For more information about Earth Day, visit www.earthday.org.
© 2012, Stephanie Humphrey. All rights reserved.
Tech-life Expert Stephanie Humphrey is a writer and media personality.
