On the supply side, manufacturers of many electronic goods have also adopted the principle of efficiency for their products. The ENERGY STAR certification program, a voluntary partnership between businesses and governments in many countries, provides a good example. Manufacturers who are willing to meet ambitious efficiency requirements are rewarded with the right to place a logo on their producers that is widely recognized by the public. ENERGY STAR certifications are now available for more than 60 product lines, including computers and other types of office equipment, home entertainment devices, refrigerators, dishwashers, clothes washers and dryers, light fixtures, and air conditioners.¹

Although the program originated as a collaboration between the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Energy in 1992, it has since expanded its reach into Europe, Canada and Australia. It is estimated that in 2008 the reduction in greenhouse gas pollution as a result of the ENERGY STAR program was equivalent to the emissions produced by 29 million cars, with savings to consumers in the rangeof $19 billion.²

1 “ENERGY STAR”

2 “About ENERGY STAR

Further Reading

For additional energy saving tips, see “Climate Changethe worldwide rise in temperatures that has been blamed for severe weather in many parts of the world. – What You Can Do,” U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, <http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/wycd/home.html>.

Next: Appendix H. Chinese Coal