Are You Ready to #Do1ThingENERGYSTAR?
Big change doesn’t always start with big actions. Sometimes, it begins with just one small step. That’s the heart of the #Do1ThingENERGYSTAR campaign. It’s a challenge that asks each of us to take one action—just one—to save energy and help the planet.
And the timing couldn’t be better. Climate change is accelerating, energy waste is everywhere, and Americans are still using more than we need. But we have the tools—and the power—to shift the story.
Why One Thing Matters
You might wonder, “What’s the point of doing just one thing?” The answer is simple: change grows. When millions of people commit to one small habit, the ripple effect is massive.
According to the EPA, if every American replaced one incandescent light bulb with an ENERGY STAR-certified LED, we could save enough energy to light 2.5 million homes for a year. That’s just from one bulb per person.
Now imagine if we all chose to do just a little more.
What Is ENERGY STAR?
ENERGY STAR is a trusted label backed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Products that earn this label meet strict energy-efficiency guidelines. That means they use less power, cost less to operate, and help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
From refrigerators to computers to windows and HVAC systems, ENERGY STAR-certified products are everywhere. So upgrading just one item in your home could lead to long-term savings—on your wallet and the environment.
How to #Do1ThingENERGYSTAR
This movement is about action. It’s not about waiting for policy. It’s about what you can do right now.
So what’s your “one thing”? Here are a few ideas:
- Replace an old bulb with an ENERGY STAR LED.
- Unplug electronics when not in use or use a smart power strip.
- Upgrade to an ENERGY STAR appliance.
- Seal air leaks around doors and windows.
- Program your thermostat to save energy when you’re out.
Even better, once you do one thing, share it. Post it on social media with the hashtag #Do1ThingENERGYSTAR. That way, you inspire others to follow.
My ENERGY STAR Story
As the Green Living Guy, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful these small changes can be. Years ago, I started with compact fluorescent bulbs. Then I made the switch to LEDs. Next, I upgraded to smart thermostats and ENERGY STAR appliances.
Each change felt small in the moment. But over time, it transformed my energy bills—and my perspective.
What started as one thing turned into a lifestyle. That’s the beauty of this campaign.
The Impact Adds Up
The stats speak volumes. ENERGY STAR products helped Americans avoid more than 500 million metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions in 2022 alone. That’s like taking 100 million cars off the road for a year.
And households using ENERGY STAR appliances saved more than $40 billion on utility bills.
So yes—your “one thing” matters. When combined with others, it creates a tidal wave of positive change.
Need Ideas? ENERGY STAR Has You Covered
If you’re not sure where to start, visit www.energystar.gov. The site offers tips, product guides, and home improvement tools. You’ll find ideas for every budget, every home size, and every season.
They even offer a “Home Energy Yardstick” to help you measure your energy use compared to similar homes. From there, you can create a custom plan that works for your lifestyle.
Let’s Create Momentum—Together
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by climate news. But action beats anxiety. The #Do1ThingENERGYSTAR campaign shows that you don’t need to be perfect. You just need to start.
So take a look around your home. Pick one thing. Change one habit. Upgrade one appliance. Then talk about it. Show your kids, your friends, your neighbors.
Sustainability doesn’t have to be complex. It just has to be consistent.
Join the Movement
Let’s do this. Let’s use our voices, our choices, and our habits to make energy efficiency the norm—not the exception.
Your next opportunity to act is now.
#Do1ThingENERGYSTAR.
