Welcome
Our Mission: To reduce greenhouse gas emissions by raising awareness in the Battle Creek area of the issues surrounding climate change.
Why "$ave Energy"?
#1 Saving energy saves money $$$. The more energy (i.e. electricity, natural gas, gasoline, propane, etc.) we use, the higher our utility bills will be. Because fossil fuel reserves, especially those of oil, are finite, we should expect the cost of energy to rise over time. One of the simplest laws of economics is that as supply decreases and demand increases, prices will increase.
The idea is to use energy wisely. In addition to saving ourselves some money, this will help extend the life of our fossil fuel reserves while we transition to a more sustainable, renewable energy system. This means simple steps like shutting off lights when leaving a room; using energy efficient (Energy Star) appliances, furnaces, and water heaters; and insulating your home. The Federal Government is supporting energy-efficient products and renewable energy systems for your home by offering federal tax credits for these purchases. Future generations and your pocketbook will thank you!
#2 Saving energy slows climate change. Since almost all of the energy we use here in Michigan comes from the combustion of fossil fuels, saving energy reduces the amount of fossil fuels that need to be burned. Burning less fossil fuel means less greenhouse gases being generated. Greenhouse gases "blanket" the Earth and trap the sun's heat. As we burn more fossil fuels, the blanket becomes thicker and our planet gets warmer. Unfortunately, this doesn't mean that our backyards will soon be a lush, tropical paradise! A warmer planet means a different planet with changed weather- stronger storms, drier dry spots and wetter wet spots. It will mean melting glaciers and higher water levels. It's a big, complex planet with many of the effects not even known at this point. Let's not gamble with it - it's the only planet we have.
Next Climate Change Coalition Meeting
10 AM on Monday, March 15, 2010 at the Battle Creek Community Foundation.
SWITCH BULBS - $AVE ENERGY Project!
Since early April 2009, the Climate Change Coalition has been working diligently to distribute 20,000 energy-efficient compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs within the Battle Creek area. While the last of the bulbs are just about gone, the SWITCH BULBS: $AVE ENERGY project continues on with its education efforts, showing area residents how energy efficiency can save money and fight climate change. Buying energy saving products from local businesses helps stimulate our local economy.
Local community organizations, businesses, churches and schools have assisted with this giveaway project. For more information about this project, please contact us via this website, or call 269-832-5177.
The SWITCH BULBS: $AVE ENERGY project is funded by the Michigan Public Service Commission through an Energy Efficiency Grant and the Battle Creek Community Foundation.
Remember to recycle your used compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs!
Your local Lowe's, Menards and Home Depot stores will take them back and recycle them for you!
