2011 First-Class Forever Stamp,Go Green: Turn Off Lights Not in Use

U.S. #4524d

2011 Turn Off Lights
Go Green

Issue Date: April 14, 2011

City: Washington, DC

Quantity: 160,000,000

Printed By: Avery Dennison

Printing Method: Photogravure

Color: Multicolored

Memories of a childhood prank of rapidly flicking a light switch on and off until the bulb pops might suggest a “Green” step people can take to conserve energy and money. The thrill of the prank was that every time a light bulb is turned on, it experiences a surge in electricity that can rapidly wear out a bulb. This reduces the life span of a bulb, especially after it has been in use for awhile.

Pranks aside, it is all too easy for people to leave lights on in rooms that are not in use. Lighting accounts for over 10% of a home’s electrical bill. Turning off lights in unused rooms saves money on the bill. Leaving unused lights on steadily shortens the life span of the bulbs, so they will need to be replaced more often. This costs more, and adds content to landfills and waste sites.

Experts suggest several ways to maximize the efficient use of light bulbs. One is to use natural lighting whenever possible, by opening drapes and curtains. Lower-wattage bulbs use less power. And while it is easy to walk through a home turning on lights in every room, thinking ahead can make a difference. Momentary trips into a room may not even need light. Smart use of lighting can save money and electricity, but the biggest savings comes when the light is not turned on at all.