How to Game the Green Way

I make it no secret to those I know that video gaming is a huge hobby of mine. I've been an avid gamer (read: geek) since was just a wee lad, and it continues to this day. Some people have a glass of wine or read a book after they get home from a long day. I jump over turtle shells and get high scores.

Apparently, it's not exactly the greenest of hobbies. A recent study by the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) reveals that about 40 percent of homes have video game consoles, and the combined power of those video game systems could power the city of San Diego for a year. Fortunately for you other gamers out there, it turns out that Discovery has put together a list of 5 Ways to Green Your Video Game System.

• Turn off the console when not in use
• Buy a Wii (it is much more energy efficient than the XBox 360 or PS3)
• Use the Power Saver mode on your system
• Don't use it to watch movies, as DVD players typically use less energy
• Dispose of old systems properly

Hopefully those tips prove to be useful for other gamers like myself. To find out more about greening your gaming, visit Discovery.