GREEN TIP # 17

The latest in our series of easy ways to help the environment

All dried up: What’s better -- paper towels or electric dryers? There's no contest, and it’s not what you probably think. Did you know electric dryers are twice as energy-efficient as paper towels, even towels made from recycled paper? Although the production of the electricity that powers electric dryers generates greenhouse gases, the production of paper towels is twice as energy-intensive and creates more greenhouse gases overall.

Also, the manufacture of paper towels emits pollutants, including chlorine, and many paper towels are made from virgin wood rather than recycled material. Your small choice can make a big difference. For more good environmental information, visit www.zerofootprint.net

- Provided by Zerofootprint, an innovative Toronto-based organization that helps companies and organizations reduce their environmental impact. See www.zerofootprint.net