Consumers play a critical role in enabling sustainability. Our choices, from adopting renewable energy sources to embracing energy-efficient technologies or getting involved in community programs, can collectively drive positive change and accelerate the shift toward a more environmentally conscious and resilient energy landscape.

Earth Day, an annual event dedicated to raising awareness and taking action to preserve our world and its most precious resources, is quickly approaching on April 22. In celebration of this significant day that directly aligns with Itron’s purpose, we’ve outlined five actionable ways consumers can integrate sustainable practices into their daily lives and help create a more resourceful world.

1.) Your utility is a resource. Use it!

Utilities play a crucial role in enabling consumers to reduce their carbon footprint. One way is by offering green pricing programs that allow consumers to pay a small premium in exchange for electricity generated from clean, renewable energy sources such as wind or solar.¹ Additionally, utilities often can provide detailed energy usage reports, which help consumers understand their consumption patterns and identify areas for improvement. Another tool in many utilities’ toolboxes is distributed energy resource (DER) programs, which manage customer loads like air conditioners, water heater thermostats, solar batteries and EV Charging management programs, and can help reduce consumers’ energy usage during peak demand periods. Consumers who opt in receive notifications and incentives from their utility, such as lower rates or rebates, to voluntarily lower their consumption. DER programs reduce energy bills, support grid stability and enable more effective load forecasting.

2.) Utilize sustainable transportation.

Sustainable transportation methods can significantly reduce a consumer’s carbon footprint. Options include walking, cycling, public transportation and carpooling when possible. These lower-emission travel options reduce reliance on fossil fuels while decreasing traffic congestion and the associated pollutants. When purchasing a vehicle, consider electric or hybrid models that release fewer emissions into the environment. Collective adoption of more sustainable transportation can lead to substantial reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and a cleaner environment overall.

3.) Knowledge is power.

Learning about environmental issues is crucial for understanding the challenges our planet faces and for inspiring both collective and individual action. By getting educated on topics such as climate disruption, water scarcity, biodiversity loss and more, consumers can gain insight into the complexities of these problems, their far-reaching impacts and opportunities to be part of the solution. The Conservation Station, developed by Itron in partnership with Discovery Education, is a great place to start and provides digital resources that unpack how new technologies are empowering consumers, making cities smarter and moving us toward a more energy-efficient future. Power Over Energy, an educational initiative focused on educating and motivating consumers to be more resourceful about the way we use energy and water, is also a great resource. In celebration of Earth Day, Itron and Power Over Energy are hosting a free on-demand screening of the award-winning water and energy documentary, Thirst for Power, from April 22-28.

4.) Adopt energy efficient appliances at home.

Improving the energy efficiency of your home can lead to significant environmental and financial savings. This includes using energy-efficient appliances, LED lighting, smart thermostats and energy-star-rated devices. Additionally, insulating your home properly can reduce the need for heating and cooling, further lowering overall energy consumption and your carbon footprint. Some utilities offer incentives for energy-efficient appliances and home improvements, such as rebates for installing insulation or energy-efficient windows, for example.

5.) Get involved in your local community.

Involvement in your local community is a powerful way to support a more sustainable and healthier planet. It allows you to contribute directly to environmental issues that are both important to you and make a tangible impact on your immediate surroundings. Many local organizations and non-profits facilitate activities such as local cleanups, tree plantings, community gardening, composting tutorials, etc. This grassroots approach improves local ecosystems and builds a foundation for wider-scale environmental change, demonstrating the significant impact of collective action in creating more sustainable communities.

Sustainability can’t happen without consumer engagement and participation. Whether you opt to carpool with friends instead of driving separate cars, install LED lighting in your home or volunteer in your community’s local garden – every action is one step forward on the path to a more sustainable future. Together, we can achieve significant strides in preserving our planet and creating a more resourceful world.