I am a pessimist.

[sarren]

I read/watch scientists presenting us with facts about dying coral reefs, species going extinct, extreme weather events etc, and assuring us earnestly that if only we reduce our greenhouse emissions by x amount the planet will be able to recover and I look at them and think, not even you believe that anymore, but you have to keep on trying

Comments

[dr_mickey_k]

I see where you are coming from, but I worry that often the cost to the environment of producing these things is not taken into account. If everyone switches to a new laptop from their desktop these things have to be manufactured and transported, ditto new monitors. Laptops are designed to be replaced entirely whereas desktops can be upgraded without discarding the whole thing. Obviously there are very valid ways to save energy, I just worry when they are then linked to further consumption

[sarren]

Clearly people shouldn't just switch over, but it's something to be considered when it's time to make a purchase. Also, once the desktop has a few things go wrong, or is superceded most people are going to buy a new one.

Also, I'm aware that the community contributes only 20% to greenhouse emissions. However, it's the only part we can influence and every bit counts. However, lobbying governments also very good. Go forth!

[zebra363]

Good tip about turning off the monitor, even if you don't want to completely turn off the computer.

If you come across whether extra power is used in turning the whole computer back on, and if so how much and when it's offset by the power saved in turning the machine off at the switch, let me know. Eg. if I'm away from the computer for an hour, is it better to turn the whole thing off or just the monitor?

[sarren]

I'll let you know if I do, though my guess would be turning off would be better.

There's a bit about how it's better to turn off the engine to your car if you are waiting for a few minutes rather than leaving it running, that the wear and tear is 'negligible'.

[victorian_tweed]

Thank you for posting this :-)

[caitlen]

Wow, I feel heaps better about having an iBook now. And instead of getting Mum a new computer, I passed on my old one to her.

*adds to her Enviro-good list*

[caitlen]

I, too, get paranoid about us wrecking the planet and think that the planet is doomed on a rather regular basis.

I thought I'd tell you that I read a really good hint the other day, about naturally air conditioning your home by putting up pergolas on the east, west & north sides of your home, with deciduous plants (like a wisteria) on the pergolas, to provide shade in the summer (can lower the temperature up to 10 degrees) and warmth in the winter (when the leaves have gone away).

:)

I'm always thinking of greeny things. I can't wait to get my own house so I can implement them all!