If you're reading this, chances are you use a computer, either at home, school, a library, or somewhere else.  Believe it or not, you can make sure that you're helping the environment by using computers in an eco-friendly way!  Here are some tips for making sure that the computers around you are being used to help, not to harm.

  • Try not to print things out unless you really need a "hard copy."  This saves paper, which helps save trees.  And when you do print, use recycled paper.

  • If you do print often, either at school or home, ask an adult if you can set up a paper recycling bin for any extra paper that would otherwise be thrown out.

  • Paper isn't the only thing you can recycle.   In fact, entire computers can be recycled for parts, or donated to organizations that need them.  If your computer becomes "outdated" and your family decides to buy a new one, don't throw it out!  Check in your community for places (like schools) that might really need your old computer.  You'll be helping out and preventing a landfill from gaining just a little more "waste."

  • And when your family or school is thinking about buying a new computer, encourage them to consider energy efficient models.  Many American-made computers now have an "Energy Star" logo to show that they are energy efficient.