Cut Emissions 88% by Downloading Software

jplatt — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 08:00:00 -0400

I had to buy some new software recently, and when I did I found that I had two options: have the program shipped to me or download it directly to my computer. I chose to have it shipped. Boy, did that turn out to be the wrong decision.

According to a recent survey by Microsoft, in cooperation with Accenture and WSP Environment and Energy, downloading a single program saves the equivalent of a gallon of gas.

The savings comes not just from shipping costs, but also from the manufacture of software disks and packaging.

Microsoft initiated the study so it could visualize the impact of its Office 2007 suite. They found that 80% of their sales came from traditional retail outlets. If they could convince those 80% of buyers to download the program instead, it would be the same as taking 13,008 passenger cars off the road for one year.

The ultimate message: "Through electronic software distribution, technology companies, like Microsoft, are supporting the transition to a low-carbon economy."

So think about that the next time you need to order a program. Do you really need that CD-ROM to sit to on your shelf for the next five years, or will a simple download do the job? I'm guessing "Download Now" is going to be your best option.

Quick Trips Call for the E-Bike

jplatt — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 08:00:00 -0400

Do you really need a car for every trip you take? What about that quick drive to the Post Office, or to visit your neighbor a few streets over? Do you have to burn fossil fuels to get there by car?

No, you don't. You could walk, you could ride a bike, or you could turn heads by trying an electric bicycle.

E-bikes (as they are often called) are just like normal bicycles, but they come equipped with rechargable batteries that can keep them going on their own power for around 10-20 miles, depending on the model you're riding. You can switch at any time between battery power and good old-fashioned pedal power, so you can also get your exercise while you're zipping around town.

E-bikes are growing in popularity around the world as more and more people try free themselves from high oil prices. It's been said that there are more than 10 million e-bikes on the road, and some say sales are expected to double this year.

The bikes come in all shapes and sizes, and with a wide variety of features. Depending on what you want out of an e-bike, you can pay as little as $300 and all the way up to $2,000 or more. If you already have a bike, you can even purchase a conversion kit to electrify it.

A few tips: First, look for a bike using NiMh or Lithium Ion batteries. They cost more, but they weigh less, last longer, and can be recharged many more times. Second, try to keep the total weight of your bike under 50 pounds, so you get the most out of your battery. Third, check the laws in your local community. Most states treat e-bikes the same as bicycles, but California has its own rules (doesn't it always), and you don't want to get in trouble when you're trying to do the right thing for the environment.

cut emissions

Cut Emissions 88% by Downloading Software

Quick Trips Call for the E-Bike