PINE BLUFF - Pine Bluff residents can learn today how to save money by weatherizing their homes with simple items such as caulking and window stripping.
The event, hosted by the Sierra Club and Arkansas Interfaith Power and Light, will begin at 9 a.m. at the Family Community Development Corporation at 1001 N. Palm St. in Pine Bluff.
Lev Guter, associate organizing representative for the Sierra Club of Arkansas, said the event is designed to “get in touch with folks who want to help protect the environment and spread that not only is protecting the environment important for health, but also for the future of our planet.”
Guter said the Family Community Development Corporation’s building was tested for air leaks that could allow hot air in during summer months and frigid air in during winter months. By fixing these air gaps, “a lot of money can be saved, and a lot of energy can be saved as well,” he said.
Repairs to the facility will be made today, and residents will have an opportunity to learn how they can make repairs to their homes.
“It’s amazing how much money you can save by using a little caulk and some weather stripping around old windows,” Guter said.
Bruce Lockett, chairman of the Family Community Development Corporation, said his organization aims to teach people about the environment and energy efficiency “at the grass-roots level.”
“Everyone has a part to play when it comes to going green,” Lockett said. “We want people to realize they can save energy by reducing their carbon footprint. And it can be as simple as making a few quick fixes around the house to better insulate it. We have to bring our energy consumption down.”
Brenda Cale of Pine Bluff said she plans to attend today’s event at the Family Community Development Corporation in hopes of learning how to save money on her energy bills.
“If I can learn how to save a dime here or there on electric bills and help the environment, I think that’s good,” Cale said. “I think there should be more events like this to teach people, because a lot of folks just don’t know about this kind of thing. I am looking forward to learning more myself.”
Arkansas, Pages 10 on 06/15/2013