The other day at the gym I was engaging in classic attention-deficient media trawling -- attempting to read my magazine, watch the morning newscast, and work up a sweat all at the same time.
So it didn't bother me too much when the TV kept shutting off. The equipment at these high-traffic fitness clubs is renowned for breaking down, so I chalked it up to an electrical glitch. Today I learned that in late July, the New York Sports Clubs reprogrammed their televisions to automatically turn off when not in use (this doesn't account, I guess, for those who want to watch without listening, but you can always plug in your headphones without putting them on).
When one person makes an effort to conserve energy, it's a good thing; when a facility with as much daily energy consumption as the NYSC network tries to conserve, it's great. Hat tip to the sports clubs for a simple and effective step in the right direction.
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David Roberts Posted 2:59 am
07 Aug 2007
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Matt G Posted 3:48 am
07 Aug 2007
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pbearden47 Posted 3:59 am
07 Aug 2007
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JMG Posted 6:08 am
07 Aug 2007
I tried to interest my YMCA manager in this idea (I suggested 15 minute timers on all TVs, like bathroom fan timers.) and haven't gotten anywhere yet. I walk through the gym and regularly turn off a dozen unwatched TVs. They did finally replace the 12 60 watt bulbs over the sinks in the mens' shower room with 13 CFLs ... and, oddly enough, since then, they are rarely left on! (Apparently people respond to environmental cues -- if they see that you're trying to save energy, they will help.)
I proposed putting the Y's energy consumption data on a chart by the entrance with a sign that said "Help keep membership dues low, save energy here at the Y" along with tips on how to do that (turn off lights/TVs/fans when not in use, shorter showers, don't keep the water running while you lather in the shower, etc.).
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Maywa Montenegro Posted 1:32 pm
07 Aug 2007
If I can, I'll find out tomorrow who's responsible for this at New York Sports Club and try to get some contact information for you.
--Maywa
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Maywa Montenegro Posted 11:52 am
08 Aug 2007
I was unable to hunt down the manager today (probably due to the transit shutdown the crippled most of the city today), but here is the number of the local New York Sports Club: (212) 665-0009. This will connect you to the person at the main desk, who will very likely be less than enthusiastic about trying to help you. But be persistent, and ask to speak to any of the managers. They should be able to tell you something about how they about the new energy efficient screens. Good luck and keep me posted!
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Gymbo Posted 11:58 pm
30 Sep 2008
Though, That would be a good idea to have the power generated by the people running on the treadmill.
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