What is the best way to save energy and help the University become a more sustainable environment? A new video produced by the U of M includes energy-saving tips for the office and for dorm rooms.

“There are a lot of simple things a person can do such as turning off lights and powering down a computer that will help the University save money,” said U of M sustainability committee member Greg Russell. “When the entire University takes part in activities such as turning off lights when leaving a room for an extended time, the savings can be huge.”

Heating and air is the largest energy expense at the U of M. Putting the thermostat on 78 degrees in the summer and 68 degrees in the winter makes a tremendous difference in the utility bill.

The University also urges that a computer be set to sleep mode after 10 minutes of activity — screen savers don’t save energy but sleep mode does.

If you have a desk lamp, using a compact fluorescent light bulb can save 75 percent in energy usage over what regular incandescent bulbs use.

To find out other ways to consume energy and make the University more sustainable, search for “University of Memphis green tips” on YouTube.

Two (green) thumbs up: The University celebrated Earth Day a day early April 21 in the Elma Roane Fieldhouse with numerous exhibitions, music, food and give-aways. The event was moved from the TIGUrS garden to indoors because of the threat of rain. At right, Green Team member Rachel Starks gives a thumbs-up as Campus School kids register for a bike that was given away to promote sustainable-living practices. (Photo by Rhonda Cosentino)