GoGreen.OK.gov is an OK.gov initiative showcasing how Oklahoma eGovernment is helping to reduce the carbon footprintby reducing paper consumption and citizen travel to government facilities.

Welcome to the 2nd "Green" Tips Message. This message is sent to all subscribing users on a weekly basis providing simple tips on becoming more Green! This article is part of Earth911’s “Green Eight” series, where they showcase eight ways to green your life in various areas.This week's message provides simple tips on:

8 Ways to Make Every Day Earth Day

1. Energy Vampires

In households across the U.S., phantom energy (energy used when items are plugged in but not in use) not only adds an additional 87 billion pounds of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere annually, but also costs homeowners $5.8 billion per year. Unplugging chargers and other electronics when the charge is complete, or when you’re simply done using them, can create up to 10 percent in energy savings. If devices are plugged into a power strip, just flip the switch and you’re done! 

2. Every Drop Counts

Global climate change affects our water supply, and right now billions of people don’t have access to clean water. To conserve water here in the U.S., there are some easy steps you can take to reduce your consumption:

• Using one drinking glass or reusable bottle per day, rather than disposable plastic bottles
• Dumping ice or leftover water on plants instead of down the drain
• Turning the faucet off while brushing your teeth, shaving and soaping dishes
• Changing a washer’s settings to reflect the appropriate size load

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