Energy-saving tips for the dorm!

Courtesy of Goucher College

* Use compact fluorescent bulbs, which last longer and use less energy than regular bulbs.
* Turn off unnecessary electrical devices when you leave a room for more than 15 minutes.
* Enable your computer to go into "sleep mode" when not in use.
* Do not leave computers on all night.
* Unplug appliances and electronics when not in use.
* Unplug cell phone charger when charging is complete.
* Use natural light rather than electric whenever possible.
* Pull down window shades at night in the winter and during the day in the summer.
* Go old school -- try a standard phone with a cord instead of a cordless model, which requires constant energy.
* Turn off and defrost refrigerator over long breaks.
* Don't use power strips to turn on your computer and desk equipment all at once.
* Buy inexpensive mugs and plates that you can wash rather than disposable ones and avoid over-packaged takeout food.
* Reuse envelopes, advertisements, and previously used paper for notes.
* Buy a water filter and refill a reusable container instead of buying cases of bottled water.
* Share magazines and books (Or--ahem go to the library! Or try PaperBackSwap--it's a great site for recycling your books and getting new things to read. Tell them "Jigsawdiva" sent you).