International Symposium on Climate Change: Energy Efficiency and Innovative Technological Solutions

What: International Symposium on Climate Change: Energy Efficiency and Innovative Technological Solutions.

Where: Tokyo, Japan

When: November 17, 2008

Why: There are efforts in the U.S. to promote a new, low-carbon society. How is this happening, and what other efforts are needed to change lifestyles in U.S.?

In this faltering economy, U.S. consumers are increasingly focused on the need to save money. And it is becoming more and more apparent that saving energy is one sure way to accomplish this. To this point, energy efficiency presents a no-cost solution, and is best approached through a multifaceted strategy.

First, standards – be they for cars, appliances, or buildings – help shape consumer purchasing by limiting their ability to make inefficient choices. Also important are consumer campaigns, such as the Alliance’s Drive $marter Challenge, which promote energy-efficient lifestyles by empowering consumers to take control of their energy consumption, and thus save money.

Not to be overlooked is the assistance consumers expect from their government, which is why effective energy laws such as EPAct 2005 and EISA 2007, as well as the extension/renewal of tax incentives, are valuable demonstrations of leadership at the federal level. To add to this, the Obama Administration has expressed its intention to give energy efficiency a primary role in energy and climate change policies.
When combined, these tactics provide a far-reaching strategy to promote the energy-efficient lifestyles required of low-carbon societies.