U-M plans to save cash, planet with Climate Savers program this year

One of the ways the University of Michigan is dealing with tough economic times is cutting down its energy costs. The latest initiative is the Climate Savers Computing Initiative where university officials are working to cut energy consumption in its IT department. The plan is to cut 10 percent of energy use within two years to save a few million dollars, and to help the planet, too.The university is going to accomplish this by using more laptops and making sure they’re Energy-Star rated. Staff will shut off all electronics, such as printers, during off times and using sleep mode for shorter periods. Printing will only be used for final versions of reports and printed on both sides of paper. Consolidated server rooms and data centers will be implemented when possible and U-M will develop a green purchasing strategy that focuses on energy-efficient products. The University is also creating green academic initiatives including internships, research projects, and academic scholarships.Source: University of MichiganWriter: Jon Zemke