SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS EQUALS PROFITABLE BUSINESS
What is the biggest misunderstanding when it comes to energy efficiency ? The biggest misunderstanding about energy efficiency is that reduced energy costs are the only benefit . In fact , there are numerous benefits beyond energy savings . Energy efficiency also ensures that the energy that is used is more productive and , in addition , reduces indirect GHG emissions and pollution that leads to improved health , safety and comfort . An ACEEE report demonstrates this reach and reports that by 2030 , the U . S . can avoid the output of a total of 800 power plants , thus saving 1 billion tons of annual carbon dioxide emissions with proper energy efficiency programs and policies in place . Reducing pollutants at this rate could also improve overall health , addressing issues like chronic lower respiratory diseases through improved air quality .
Moreover , energy efficiency in turn increases local grid resilience and can help support improved economic development . The U . S . economy is already feeling a shift on a large scale . In fact , the Sustainable Energy in America Factbook notes that there has been a 10 percent improvement in U . S . energy productivity over the past five years , meaning that the U . S . economy is using 10 percent less energy to power each unit of growth .
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