Energy

Depending on the type of event, energy requirements can be quite high. Regardless of the scale of energy use, it is important to cut energy use whenever possible. Energy use has direct correlations with global climate change*. As 84% of Missouri's energy comes from burning coal (the average nationally is 52%), you can be fairly certain that your event energy use is putting a significant amount of CO2  (as well as mercury and other pollutants) into the atmosphere. 

The greenest - and cheapest - kilowatt hour (kwh) is the one that is not used. Energy efficiency and conservation behaviors are the best ways to reduce your energy use in your home, office, and at your event.

For events, you can start with the venue. Do you have the flexibility to select a venue that has energy efficient light fixtures, light sensors, and other energy-saving features? (All LEED certified* buildings are equipped with many energy efficient and energy saving features.) If the event is outside and requires generators, could the generators be run on biofuels? 

For indoor events, try to select a green venue to reduce your energy impact. If you are renting or buying any appliances, seek out the Energy Star Label, which will tell you that the item you are selecting has met the EPA requirements for energy efficiency.

Laptops are more energy efficient than computers, so use those when giving presentations or as part of a display. Turn off computers and projectors or put them into sleep mode during long breaks to conserve energy. Place signs on each door or above the light switch reminding the last person to turn off the lights. 

Try to lower the thermostat a couple degrees in the winter and raise it a couple of degrees in the summer. This adjustment usually goes unnoticed, but can save 2-3% on your energy bill for every degree you adjust. 

Another possibility is to offset the energy use of your events. You can do this through the P.U.R.E power program through AmerenUE. Their staff can calculate how much energy your event will use, based on the electricity bill of the venue. Through the program, you buy wind energy credits from Missouri wind farms and support local renewable energy projects. You can also buy carbon offsets through many Internet vendors. Just be sure to look for third party certification to ensure that your money is going where you think it is. (See Resources)

Cost Savings Opportunities: Energy savings equals major cost savings, especially as the cost of energy goes up. Reducing your energy needs is a safe way to reduce your overall costs and prevent energy price spikes from cutting into your budget. 

Green Lens Questions: What is the greatest energy savings for the least sacrifice of comfort? How can energy signage (like signs reminding to turn off the light) fit into the education plan? Is this product energy star certified?

For local green listings, visit: www.stlouisgreen.com

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