614


Topic 614	How Trees Clean Up for Us	2 responses
igc:earthsmiths	en.energy	12:03 am  Aug  7, 1990

In an attempt to convey the importance of energy conservation to my
  customers, and hence sell energy-efficient lighting and other devices,
  I've developed the following chart.
  It lists typical electric household appliances and common use times.
  Assuming the electricity comes from coal-burning power plants, I'm
  able to show them how much carbon dioxide is released into the
  atmosphere.  Finally, I relate the number of days it takes a tree
  planted on Earth Day 1970 to absorb that CO2.
  If nothing else, this generally gets a few eyes opened and does
  sell some light bulbs.
  
  APPLIANCE                  USE TIME       CO2 (lb)    TREE RESPIRATION (days)
  ---------                  --------       --------    -------------------
  Light Bulb (75 watt)       per hour         0.20               6
  Color Television           per hour         0.64              20
  Steam Iron                 per hour         0.85              26
  Vacuum Cleaner             per hour         1.70              52
  Air Conditioner, room      per hour         4.00             121
  Toaster Oven               per hour        12.80             388
  Ceiling Fan                per day          4.00             121
  Refrigerator, frostless    per day         12.80             388
  Waterbed heater            per day         24.00             727
   with thermostat           per day         12.80             388
  Clothes Dryer              per load        10.00             303
  Dishwasher                 per load         2.60              80
  Toaster                    per use          0.12               3.6
  Microwave oven             per 5 min use    0.25               7.3
  
  Sources:
  Detroit Edison, Amory Lovins, Global Releaf

 I have more interesting facts along these lines for those interested.

 Gregor Rittinger
 EARTHSMITHS
 P.O. Box 4189
 Ann Arbor, MI  48106
 (313) 665-1010


Conf?