University is changing the world, one lightbulb at a time

University Park, Pa. -- Penn State announced that it has joined the Energy Star Change a Light, Change the World campaign, a growing community of corporations, utilities, manufacturers, individuals and others who have made a firm commitment to change the world, one light -- one energy-saving step -- at a time.

As part of this national movement, Penn State has volunteered to encourage students, faculty and staff to pledge to replace at least one incandescent bulb at home or on campus with one that has earned the government's Energy Star label. Penn State hopes to sign up 10,000 pledges.

"Like many organizations, we want to do our part to create a better environment, Penn State is deeply committed to energy conservation. We hope this Penn State commitment will inspire our students and employees to do the right thing and help us reduce green house gas emissions," said Steve Maruszewski, deputy associate vice president for Physical Plant and leader of the Finance and Business Environmental Strategy.

With lighting accounting for about 20 percent of the typical home's electricity use, switching to energy-efficient options is a significant way to reduce greenhouse gases, save energy and protect the environment for future generations. To be part of Penn State's efforts, take the pledge at http://energy.opp.psu.edu/ online.

Energy Star was introduced by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in 1992 as a voluntary, market-based partnership to reduce air pollution through increased energy efficiency. Today, with assistance from the U.S. Department of Energy, the program offers businesses and consumers energy-efficient solutions to save energy and money, and help protect the environment for future generations.