Environmental Impact

Results of Our Energy Conservation Efforts

Since our program began in July 2012, PWCS has been able to save an average of $6 million in utility costs annually! By practicing energy reducing behaviors, PWCS has helped reduce cumulative greenhouse gas emissions. We have had an energy reduction impact by an average of 253,452,697 KBTU per year.

Annually, this is equivalent to an average of:

  • 26,420 metric tons of CO2 diverted;
  • 5,504 cars not driven for one year; and
  • 677,426 tree seedlings grown for 10 years.

The chart below shows our greenhouse gas emissions by gas type. Carbon Dioxide (CO2) equivalent is used to demonstrate the relative impact of all emissions.

For optimal viewing experience, please use the Google Chrome web browser.

The EPA has a greenhouse gas equivalencies calculator. This is an excellent resource as it uses everyday words and concepts for a better understanding of carbon dioxide emissions. Calculate our carbon dioxide emissions using the EPA's tool, and discover how our energy reducing behaviors have impacted the environment.

Carbon Footprint

One of our goals is for PWCS to become carbon neutral. Thus, total emissions would have to be at net zero. This means we would have to counteract our carbon emissions by doing something positive for the environment. For example, changing from incandescent and fluorescent light bulbs to LED bulbs can have a huge impact on the environment and on our energy bills. We are on a quest to change all light bulbs in the division to LED bulbs by 2023.

We are taking active measures toward achieving our goals. We practice energy conservation behaviors like turning off lights, unplugging small electronics, conserving water with low-flow devices, powering down computers and monitors, and recycling. Changing daily behaviors in an effort to be more environmentally conscious is how we can proceed down the path to sustainability.