It seems everywhere I look people are reading from their iPad, Kindle, or Nook. By using an electronic screen, much like a computer, e-readers allow you to store up to 10,000 books on a single device, saving shelf space and trees. As an added bonus, most e-books are discounted 40-60% (or even free!) compared to their paper counterparts. It’s important to voice your green opinion to publishers by purchasing e-books. Yet, for those of us who enjoy the textures, smells, and catharsis of books, utilize your local library! Millions of books, periodicals, and journals are right at your fingertips, for free!

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When it comes to heating up your car during these bitter winter months, idling may not be the best method. Idling is, in fact, harmful for your car and the environment. According to The Daily Green, idling will decrease engine efficiency over time, as well as reduce mileage. The Hinkle Charitable Foundation claims that 5 minutes of daily idling over one year will produce 440 pounds of carbon dioxide, as well as waste 20 gallons of gasoline for V-8 engine cars. Contrary to popular belief, driving will warm your car faster than idling, and will reduce unnecessary carbon emissions. For more information on this subject, visit The Daily Green. To view various state laws against idling, click here.

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Answer: C, 10 times longer!

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Weekly Green Trivia brought to by our NY receptionist Annalisa Shoemaker and Green Guidance.
 
An incandescent light bulb (60 watts) lasts about 750 hours. How much longer does a compact florescent bulb last?
(A) 2 times longer
(B) 5 times longer
(C) 10 times longer
(D) 20 times longer
 
Let me see your guesses!

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On February 16th, NBCUniversal announced the winners of their second annual Eco-Ovation Awards. These awards are given to employees who support NBCU’s commitment to going green and practicing innovative sustainability. A group from Universal Orlando, for example, was responsible for a 540% increase in plastic bottle recycling, and a 100% increase in recycling of aluminum cans. They also saved 4,000 rolls of paper towels due to incorporating efficient hand dryers. Another group from Universal Pictures was recognized for creating Universal Virtual Stage 1, a cutting-edge technology, which saves on construction materials and prevents traveling to remote locations. This is just a fraction of the green innovation occurring within NBCU; check back to hear more updates!

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According to PlanetGreen.com, the average family runs roughly 400 loads of laundry every year. This translates to around 13,500 gallons of annual water usage. Switching to an Energy Star certified washing machine could easily reduce this statistic as they save an estimated 7,000 gallons of water per year. Additionally, running the dryer is one of the leading sources of household energy output, coming in second after the refrigerator. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the average household spends over $70 per year in dryer-related energy costs. When possible, consider drying your clothes on a clothesline or drying rack to save energy and money.

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This is coming to you from our NY receptionist extraordinaire, Annalisa.

Our NY and LA offices conducted a little experiment to determine who we’d show the love to this Valentine’s Day. After all of our employees went home on Friday evening, we checked everyone’s computer to see if they shut them down properly. For those who did, we handed out tasty chocolates this morning. Our experiment was successful and served as a reminder to those who did and those who forgot to turn off their electronics at the end of the day. Shutting down one computer every night saves $90/year on your electric bill! This simple test and special treat could work in your office any day of the week!

Happy Valentine’s Day all!

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Although it is still Winter here in New York, our office is getting a jump start on Spring Cleaning! It’s never a wrong time to clean out drawers and closets, especially since charities welcome donations year-round. Donating somewhat worn items not only helps the less fortunate but also gives those items a longer life, reducing the need to produce new ones, and keeps them out of landfills. We’ve collected books, DVDs, and CDs to donate to our local charities. Repurposing warms our hearts in this chilly weather. Find charities near you by clicking here. What’s your favorite group you donate to?

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