In the daily news, there are constant discussions on how to protect the environment versus the energy concerns we have as a country. Here in Colorado, this is an especially important issue. There are concerns about fracking, wind power, and solar power. I understand these concerns. I understand that there are concerns about being dependent on foreign energy.
This has become an increasingly important issue to me as a new father. I want my daughter to be able to enjoy the outdoors when she grows up as much as I have throughout the years. I often wonder what I can do as an individual. My family recycles. We have our own compost. We grow our own vegetables and spices. What more can I do as an individual to help the environment?
Energy efficiency is one way that all of us can help. Energy efficiency covers several areas. It can be something every day as using incandescent lightbulbs. Newer appliances are energy efficient. This includes washers, dryers, refrigerators, water heaters, and many other products used in the home. They currently build energy efficient homes with better insulation used in home construction.
As consumers, everything in our daily lives comes down to money. We want more fuel-efficient vehicles to save us money. As individuals, why do we not think about this constantly? We can turn off lights when we are not in the room. We can lower the thermostat when we leave the home. There are also countless ways we can save water as well. This saves each individual money.
If all of us use less energy in our daily lives, the amount of energy used as a nation will go down drastically. According to Environment Colorado, “If everyone makes these small changes, they can really add up — to 334 million fewer metric tons of global warming pollution emitted each year, the equivalent of taking 65.5 million cars off the road. In addition, the average family could save up to $400 on their utility bills.”
If we all use less energy as a nation, then there will no need to have the debate of energy consumption. There will not be the need for more fracking. There will not be the need for more windmills. There will not be the need for more solar panels.
We drive often to southern New Mexico to see family. The beautiful Colorado landscape is randomly blotted with industrial smoke or massive windmills. I know that they are needed for now. I am hoping that with all of us taking more responsibility at home that there will not be the need for anymore.
Juan Rodriguez Jr. is a graduate student at the University of Colorado Denver.
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