The only way you haven’t heard of solar energy is if you’ve been living under a rock for the past 20 years. The question is, have you ever thought about the impact that solar energy has on the environment? Ever thought why it’s was important to conserve solar energy? Well, solar energy is energy from the sun that is transformed into thermal or electrical energy, and converted into heat once it hits a surface. Without the sun we could not survive on earth, because enough heat would not be produced to keep us warm.

We use solar energy to grow plants, cook food, warm the house, run the car, and make electricity. Solar energy also makes rain fall and the wind blow. We collect energy through dams and windmills. Solar energy produces no air or water pollution and no greenhouse gases. Despite the initial substantial amount, solar energy is cheaper over time. Solar energy is renewable and clean, plus it is free as long as the sun shines.

Knowing this will allow everyone to partake in being ecofriendly by incorporating the three “Rs” (reduce, reuse, and recycle) and conserving solar energy. Here are seven ways to reduce your use:
1. Turn washer to cold or warm water—not hot, switching can save 500 pounds of carbon dioxide per year.

2. Buy compact fluorescent bulbs—they use only a quarter of the energy from regular bulbs, plus they are much brighter.

3. Walk or ride a bike instead of driving—save money, gas, and drop a few pounds while conserving energy.

4. Avoid over checking food while it’s cooking in the oven—each time the oven door is open, the temperature drops, which makes the energy expend to increase the temperature.

5. Take a shower over a bath—showers use four times less energy than a bath.

6. Use less hot water—enough said.

7. Plant a tree—maximize the energy generated from the sun. This also helps plant growth and produce harvest.

(Image source: solar.envirohub.net)