In this tough economy, businesses can lower utility bills and help the environment by encouraging employees to use the new ENERGY STAR @ work online tool — an animated office cube with pop-up bubbles that include easy suggestions to save energy at work.

To take a tour of ENERGY STAR @ work, go to: www.energystar.gov/work.

With the average American worker spending almost 8 hours a day at their place of employment, the workplace offers a unique opportunity for people to make a significant impact in the fight against global warming. Many employees want to bring environmentalism to work to improve the planet, and ENERGY STAR @ work offers a great place to start.

Here are a few easy tips from the ENERGY STAR @ work tool that employees can use to save energy at the office.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Give It a Rest

Use the ENERGY STAR power management settings on your computer and monitor so they go into power save mode when not in use.

I recommend: Also use a power strip as a central “turn off” point when you are using equipment to completely disconnect the power supply. ENERGY STAR offers a helpful of energy saving moves specifically for building managers.

Unplug It

Unplug electronics such as cell phones and laptops once they are charged.

I recommend: Remember that adapters and chargers plugged into power outlets continue to use energy even if they are no longer charging your device. Also check out ENERGY STAR'S energy saving tips for executives.

Light Up Your Work Life

Replace the light bulb in your desk lamp with an ENERGY STAR qualified bulb.

I recommend: These energy-saving bulbs will last up to 10 times longer and use about 75 percent less energy. Don't forget to turn off the lights when you leave, especially at the end of the day.

Cut the Clutter and Let It Flow

Keep air vents clear of paper, files, and office supplies.

I recommend: It takes as much as 25 percent more energy to pump air into the workspace if the vents are blocked. Check out these other energy saving tips especially for small business.

Team Up

Have fun, save money and generate team spirit by creating a 'green team' at your business.

I recommend: Creating a Green Team with your co-workers helps build support for energy-efficiency in your workplace, and reduce office waste. You'll find these tips helpful in forming your team.

Make your business ENERGY STAR-qualified

Set a goal to make your building an ENERGY STAR qualified building.

I recommend: Energy use in commercial buildings and manufacturing plants accounts for nearly half of the total U.S. greenhouse gas emissions and nearly 50 percent of energy consumption nationwide. You'll find details on how to join and what's in it for your business right here.

The ENERGY STAR Web site also has information on taking the ENERGY STAR Challenge to reduce energy use http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=challenge.bus_challenge, and an email tip card to pass along to friends, family and coworkers.

For more information, visit: energystar.gov/work.