| We can't get our energy use down to zero, but we can take steps to
make sure the energy we use generates as little carbon pollution as
possible. Since energy comes to us by way of fuel sources, there are a
few options to consider.
Many states now allow electricity consumers, for instance, to choose a "green power" supplier, usually a utility that generates all or a portion of its electricity using wind, water, biomass, or solar power. The availability and cost premium of such options vary, but often institutional purchasers like campuses have an edge and can help drive a market for local green electricity purchase options. Many campuses throughout the Northeast have already led the way in green electricity purchases (see Case Studies section below), often pushed by student-led petition drives and awareness campaigns. If no truly clean source of electricity is available, look for electricity generated using natural gas, which is much more efficient and releases less carbon dioxide and equivalents into the atmosphere than coal or oil. |
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