Conserving Resources with Technology

Sustainability? Great idea! Resource conservation? Count me in!

When I think about the tools I use to conserve resources, they have a common theme — technology.

Be it at work or at home, technology has changed the way we do…everything.  And while there will always be those late-adapters whose very nature is to lament change, one thing has become clear — there’s no going back. 

For better or worse, technology will continue to evolve and improve.  But note to all feet-draggers: that’s not a bad thing. 

Let’s face it; sometimes technology gets a bad rap.  That’s because it’s easy to dismiss technology as a matter of convenience.   And while that’s true in many cases, we have to remember the tangibles — efficiency, productivity, and safety.

But there’s a HUGE benefit that often gets lost in the shuffle — sustainability.

If you’re like me, using energy and resources wisely is probably a matter of common sense.  But for those who are new to the concept of conservation through technology, it might take some imagination. 

So I’d like to offer some simple, common sense tips and ideas for those who are interested in sustainability and conservation, but don’t know exactly where to start. 

Get a smartphone.  I use mine for everything.

• I no longer print out meeting details or my daily agenda.  I have all my calendar details on my phone.
   
• I no longer print out directions because my phone has built in GPS.
   
• I don't carry around a notebook any more to jot down to-dos, notes, and shopping lists. Again it’s all in my phone.
   
• I use the Kindle app on my phone to take a couple books with me where ever I go.
   
• I use Google Music on my Android and no long carry around an iPod as an extra device.

Ride a scooter.  Whenever possible I drive my scooter to work as opposed to a full sized vehicle.  This saves me money at the gas pump and extends the life of my vehicles.  These scooters have come a long way in recent years for speed and reliability.  Also, since their popularity has increased the prices ranges have come down.

Ever heard of the Internet? (Some of my favorite web sites that help me save resources)

• FreeCycle, eBay, Craig’s List…anything that connects those who have something with those who need something is excellent in my book.  It not only saves people money, it keeps unnecessary waste out of the landfill.  FreeCycle in particular is an entirely nonprofit movement of people who are giving (and getting) stuff for free in their own towns. If you haven't checked-out FreeCycle, I highly recommend it.
   
• eVite.com allows me to create and manage event invitations. I don’t solely use this because, in my book, special occasions, such as weddings and graduations, still warrant a “real” invitation.  On the other hand, my yearly barbeque doesn’t.
   
• Store Ads Online.  We rarely get the newspaper, but I found that when I did buy a paper, it was mostly to check out the ads. It’s likely that many of your favorite stores have great on-line ads, allowing you to curb paper usage without missing any bargains.

My watch list:

• e-readers. Trust me, there's nothing I love more than curling-up with a good old fashioned book.  And while e-readers mimic a lot of that, I think we can all agree it’s not quite the same.   But this is where I have to get creative and compromise with myself, because not every book that I buy is worthy of a throw blanket and fireplace.  E-readers are expanding in capacity, speed, features and accessibility. Many local libraries now offer e-books as a part of their service.  And the Amazon Kindle Store has a whole list of free books!
   
• Electric assist bicycle. The idea of riding a bike anywhere in my hometown becomes a daunting endeavor at the first hill or bluff encountered.  That’s why I love the idea of the electric assist on a traditional bicycle.  I am watching this one closely to see when these get lighter, faster, and cheaper.

I try to make conscious choices and compromises in order to reduce my carbon foot print.  While I am thinking about options, I always try to consider the whole impact of my choice by factoring-in the products' manufacturing and transportation cost.

Sustainability? Great idea! Resource conservation? Count me in!  

I know I'll be doing my part.  How about you?