Since 1970, the US has been celebrating Earth Day on April 22nd.  This holiday is intended to inspire awareness of and appreciation for the Earth's environment.  Planting a tree is a great way to observe Earth Day, but there are many other things that you can do that will significantly lessen your impact on the environment.

Studies estimate that artificial lighting consumes over 40% of the total electricity produced in the US.   All of us can help reduce this figure by switching to more energy efficient lighting alternatives such as compact fluorescent bulbs.  Eiko Energy Star rated Compact Fluorescent lamps consume less power than standard incandescent bulbs and can last longer, too.  Eiko's Energy Star rated lamps provide the following features:

• Energy Efficiency - uses 75% less power than standard incandescent lamps
• Cost Efficient - saves up to $30 in electricity costs over the life of each lamp
• Environmentally Friendly - reduces the emission of pollutants, including mercury
  

Energy Star is a government-backed program that offers information on ways to protect the environment through energy efficient products.  The Energy Star website asks you to join the fight against global warming by taking the Energy Star Pledge.

Regardless of whether you're a homeowner, facilities manager or electrical contractor, by choosing the right fixtures and lamps, you can lighten the load we place on our planet and ensure that the resources we have now will last long into the future.