Remember these simple conservation ideas as you go to school each day:

• Turn off lights, computers, TVs and radios before you leave for school.



• Take short showers and turn off the faucet while brushing your teeth.



• Wear extra layers of clothing so you’ll stay warm without turning up the heat.



• Walk, bike, carpool or ride the bus to school.



• Pack your lunch in a canvas bag or lunch box rather than a disposable paper bag.



• Use reusable plastic food containers rather than throwaway sandwich bags.



• When shopping for school supplies, look for products made from recycled materials.

DOE launches energy efficiency campaigns for kids

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) recently launched two new energy efficiency campaigns for kids: “What's your Excuse?,” which is focused on the 8-12 “tween” market, and a Tinker Bell-themed campaign for 8- to 9-year-olds. The two campaigns are designed to educate children about the importance of energy efficiency.

“What's your Excuse?” encourages tweens to save energy at home with a 10-step energy action plan and includes tips, games and downloads on the Lose Your Excuse website. Help children learn positive energy saving habits at The Tinker Bell campaign .