Conserve energy: A valuable suggestion for all Published Feb. 5, 2008 92nd Civil Engineer Squadron FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- In a Feb. 4 memorandum to all Air Mobility Command wing commanders, Lt. Gen. Chris Kelly, AMC vice commander, asked the following of all us: "Gen. Jim Hawkins joins me in seeking your support for the following. As Americans, we understand that energy conservation has become a national imperative - one which requires awareness and commitment from every citizen. As Airmen, we understand that we must reduce our energy consumption and increase our reliance on energy from renewable sources to cut energy costs and ensure we have the resources needed to win today's fight, take care of our people and prepare for tomorrow's challenges. Prudent resource management compels each of us to enforce energy conservation and make energy conservation a 'way of life', both on and off duty. "We need to promote simple "Just Do It" energy initiatives...turn off lights, walk to meetings, and keep thermostats set at appropriate levels. The 'Office Energy Checklist'...provides some simple ideas to reduce energy consumption around the office," stated the memorandum. Office Energy Checklist The following is a simple checklist of energy conservation and efficiency measures to use at the office: - Switch off all unnecessary lights. - Use natural lighting when possible. - When working late, use task lighting to directly illuminate work areas. - Always use compact fluorescent lights in desk lamps as opposed to incandescent lights. - Unplug equipment that drains energy even when not in use such as cell phone chargers, fans, coffeemakers, desktop printers and radios. - As computer security procedures allow, turn off your office equipment and/or computer monitors at the end of the work day. - Use ENERGY STAR® endorsed products which meet strict energy efficiency criteria set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency or the U.S. Department of Energy. - Close or tilt window blinds to block direct sunlight in order to reduce cooling needs during warm months. - Always use the second side of paper, either by printing on both sides or using the blank side as scrap paper. - Analyze your utility bills. Target the biggest bill for energy conservation remedies. - Carpool, bike or use mass transit when commuting to work. - To save gas, drive the speed limit, accelerate and decelerate slower and make sure tires are inflated correctly.