The James River Steward’s Almanac

Energy Efficient

When it gets hot, let’s do our best to keep the river (and the planet) cool.

Be a Friend of the River…dry the clothes on the line.

Water pollution makes us think of stormwater runoff, sewage pipes, manure ponds, and factory discharges. But did you know that using energy causes water pollution too? In producing electricity, several types of pollution are created that effect the James River watershed. First, the warm water used to cool a power plant is released back to the river causing thermal pollution that can affect native aquatic wildlife’s ability to survive and thrive. Second, nitrous oxides released from the smokestack can contribute to the nutrient pollution problem as the nitrogen is deposited to waterways. Third, oxides of sulfur and nitrogen can add to the acidification of headwater streams, and thus the loss of habitat for threatened species. Last, the threat global warming poses to aquatic ecosystems is severe, and every bit of fossil fuel burned contributes its fair share to this problem.

When the sun is shining, try leaving the clothes dryer off. Hanging your wash out to dry can save you 5% of your energy bill, not to mention a significant reduction in your personal contribution to greenhouse gas and nutrient pollution. All this and that fantastic smell or clothing dried in the wind and sun are yours when you chose the clothesline over the dryer.

Learn More:

How and Why to Air Dry
Barriers to Hanging Out the Wash

---

Be a Guardian of the River……choose a river-friendly climate in your home.

The hotter it gets the harder we try to stay cool. We crank up the AC and hope for the best. Trouble is, using more energy to stay cooler inside makes it hotter everywhere else. As the power plant ramps up output to meet peak electricity demand, it sucks up more river water for cooling and spits it out hot. Air pollution coming out of the smokestack increases the long-term temperature rise of global warming. And air pollution that can turn into nutrient pollution in our waterways becomes more severe. 

There are many ways to achieve a comfortable climate in your home without demanding more and more energy. Opening windows on cool nights, using fans, and reducing the use of heat-producing lights and appliances are all ways to reduce the need for more AC. Check out the useful websites below for more tips on reducing energy use in the summer.

Learn more:
Summer Tips from the Alliance to Save Energy
Stay Cool, Save Money

---

View archived articles >>