December is a prime-time for household energy use: In addition to the usual electronic gadgets like cell phone chargers, TVs, and computers, there’s the added burden of holiday lights, plus regular lights that simply stay on longer due to fewer daylight hours. Not only does all this electricity add up to a higher energy bill, it also makes for a higher carbon footprint. But don’t worry—there’s a simple solution (and it doesn’t involve sitting in the dark!).

Believe it or not, electronic devices suck up energy from power outlets even when they aren’t in use. How to stop them? Unplug! If it sounds like a pain, try using a power strip—that way, you’ll only deal with one big plug instead of a ton of smaller ones. And if that’s not an option, at least unplug the items that aren’t used as frequently (such as a microwave, which, compared to something like a lamp or TV, is used less.) It’s an incredibly easy (not to mention incredibly effective) way to curb your energy use—so there’s really no excuse not to get in the habit!

Need more motivation? Check out this chart that illustrates the amount of standby power used by different devices and appliances.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Every week I take out my trash and ask myself, “Is ALL of this stuff really mine?” While I am conscious of my trash consumption, some things are unavoidable. However, some things can easily be forgotten.

Here’s Planet Green’s list to let us know what disposable products we can end our relationships with:

1. Bottled water
2. Diapers
3. Air filters
4. Paper towels
5. Wrapping paper
6. Individually-wrapped foods
7. Takeout food
8. Feminine products
9. Razors
10. Furniture

Their honorable mention: Takeout chopsticks

– Stephanie, KIWI staff and seeker of ways to reduce trash consumption