Green Living by Janet Marchant: Reducing Cold Starts

Quick! What was the last thing you did before reading this column? Was it turning on your computer? If so, your computer use habits may need a green makeover.

Did you know that cold-starting your computer dumps as much carbon dioxide and particulate matter into your home as running it for several hours does? An easy alternative is to leave the computer on at all times, in much the way that many of us leave our cars idling when we run into the dentist's office for a filling.

If you follow this advice, you're sure to notice a difference in your electricity bill! And once you experience the convenience of instant computer access, you may never shut it off again.