The History of Energy Star

Most everyone is familiar with the Energy Star logo found on appliances and electronics. Energy Star was founded in 1992 as an initiative of both the EPA and the U.S. Department of Energy. These two departments joined forces to create a plan for the conservation of energy through consumer goods. It is estimated that 70 percent of U.S. Residents are familiar with the Energy Star logo and many look for it when shopping. There are more than a billion products currently bearing the Energy Star designation.

Prior to the Kyoto Protocol, most people were unaware of global warming its negative effects on the environment. Our society is slowly making progress towards positive action. While change on a large scale can be difficult to achieve, it is possible. Thanks to the tireless lobbying of environmentalists there is more attention being paid to the global warming problem and to what can be done both globally and locally.

The Energy Star program has been aware of the problem posed by global warming far longer than the majority of US citizens. Their main goals were, and still are, to help the environment while helping consumers save money with products that are energy efficient. The program started small, with its logo on a small number of household appliances, computer towers and computer monitors. It was 1995 when Energy Star expanded to encompass HVAC equipment for residential dwellings and equipment for offices.

These days, Energy Star can be found on more than 60 types of products including but not limited to TV sets, audio systems, washers and dryers and microwaves. Recently, the Environmental Protection Agency has expanded to include energy saving products for both homes and businesses. With each year this organization gets bigger and reaches a larger number of consumers. It is estimated that Energy Star is affiliated with more than 15,000 public and private organizations. In addition Energy Star helps educate the public about making smarter buying decisions.

When you purchase a product that bears the Energy Star logo, you can feel good about saving energy. This not only helps prevent global warming but also conserves precious resources while leaving more money in your pocket. In the year 2008, Energy Star saved more than $20 billion through the reduction of energy thanks to their many energy efficient products. Not only that, but in April of this year a campaign was started by the EPA to encourage consumers to practice more energy efficient habits and use Energy Star products.

It is estimated by Energy Star that there will be a reduction of approximately 50 MMTEC worth of harmful greenhouse gases thanks to the actions and products of the program. This conservation amount is equivalent to $15 billion worth of electric bills and the polluting emissions from over 30 million automobiles.

We can all help Energy Star meet their estimations or even exceed them by changing our habits around the house and choosing only products bearing this energy efficient logo. Small changes can make a big difference, especially when large numbers of people make these simple efforts for a healthier environment.

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