Sustainable Winter Shutdown Tips for Staff and Faculty

As you prepare to leave for break, take a couple of minutes to reduce your impact with a few simple steps:

  • Unplug devices and appliances in your office  Even if they’re turned off, your electronics still use energy while plugged in. Make sure to unplug your computer, printer, copier, lamps, etc.  If you use a power strip, remember to turn it off.  (If you don’t use a power strip, check out this student blogpost about how they can reduce your energy use.)
  • Unplug appliances in your shared kitchen or common space such as coffee pots, microwaves, printers, and copiers.
  • Turn off lights  Remember to turn off the lights in your office and any common spaces
  • Close your windows
  • If your department has a mini fridge, unplug and empty it After unplugging your mini fridge, make sure to eat, compost, or dispose of any leftover food. You’ll thank yourself later if you also clean the fridge!

For more info and for a list of buildings that are closed during the break, visit the Facilities Winter Shutdown page.