Faculty and Staff Asked to 'UnPlug for the Holidays'

Faculty and Staff Asked to 'UnPlug for the Holidays'
Photo Submitted

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – On a typical December day the University of Arkansas burns about 12 megawatts of electrical energy.

On Dec. 25, when there is almost no one on campus, electricity consumption only drops to 9 megawatts.

Some of that power goes to keep lights on in the empty buildings for security reasons. But a significant amount of electricity is used up by electrical devices that are turned off but still plugged in.

The fact is that even the smallest electrical device consumes energy until it is unplugged.

This year the U of A Sustainability Council has launched the “UnPlug for the Holidays” campaign, urging all faculty and staff members to do more than turn off their electrical equipment – unplug it when they leave in December.

What equipment? Here’s an easy checklist:

  • Computers, computer monitors, video monitors
  • Power strips
  • Chargers
  • Printers, copiers 
  • Space heaters
  • Office lights
  • Refrigerators, microwaves, coffee-makers, other small appliances

Quick reminder – empty that refrigerator before you unplug.

How much could the “UnPlug” campaign save? The estimate is as much as $37,000 for the 12 day holiday.

So, save energy and money while you relax on vacation: please, Unplug for the Holidays.

Contacts

Carlos Ochoa, director
Sustainability Council
479-575-2405, cochoajr@uark.edu

Steve Voorhies, manager of media relations
University Relations
479-575-3583, voorhies@uark.edu

Headlines

Food Scientists Show Rice Malt Has Potential to Play a Bigger Role in Beer

With Arkansas growing about half of the rice in the United States, and shortages of traditional raw materials such as barley, evaluating rice cultivars for use in malted brewing was one goal of U of A researchers.

Electrical Engineering and Computer Science Senior Design Projects Reviewed by Alumni

Students condensed their design work into senior design projects and presented them for department alumni and other industry professionals, gaining insights from peers and faculty members.

An Evening With NWA Soldier Songs and Voices: The Healing Power of Music

Members of the Northwest Arkansas chapter of Soldier Songs and Voices will share their experiences and perform music in the Pryor Center atrium at 6 p.m. on Friday, April 5.

University Not Pursuing Full External Management of Custodial and Grounds Services

Following an evaluation process that provided the U of A with the opportunity to learn more about its current operations compared to the market, the university will maintain its current workforce.

NAHJ UARK: Free Churros and Sodas During J-Days Celebration

 The U of A chapter of the National Association of Hispanic Journalists will offer churros and sodas on the north patio of Kimpel Hall from noon to 2 p.m. Thursday. Stop by and support your local journalist.

News Daily