Energy consumption is a big problem that we are facing today. The United States is responsible for 25 percent of global warming pollution. 48 percent of energy consumption comes from buildings, and this sector generates more greenhouse gas emission than any other sector.  As designers we have a serious responsibility to promote change. Generation and use of energy are major contributors to air pollution and global climate change. That is why energy efficiency is one of the key elements when we think about sustainable buildings. Energy efficient choices can save families on their energy bills while reducing greenhouse gas emissions as well.  

    I found a great website (http://hes.lbl.gov/) sponsored by U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), as part of the national ENERGY STAR Program for improving energy efficiency in homes, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the US Department of Housing and Urban Development's PATH program, the California Air Resources Board, the California Energy Commission's Public Interest Energy Research (PIER) program, and Touchstone Electric Cooperatives that help consumers identify the best ways to save energy in their homes, and find the resources to make it happen

    The Home Energy Saver calculates energy use and savings opportunities, based on a detailed description of the home provided by the user. You begin the process by entering your zip code and instantly receive initial estimates. By providing more information about the home the user will receive customized results along with energy-saving upgrade recommendations. The calculations are based on methods developed at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory.

   It is about time that we start doing something about this, and why not start doing it at our own home.