Voice Actors Are Green People Too!

Stephanie over at Vox Daily recently wrote about going green with your branding. I believe she may be on to something here! You can't so much as turn on your computer anymore without having the word 'green' pop up. It's everywhere...your TV, your mail, your job...

It's no secret I'm an old hippie at heart. Always have been. I love animals, nature, anything wild and beautiful. In the past few years, I've begun gardening organically and eating the same way. I find it is easier and easier to become a more 'natural' person.

Let me clarify...this has nothing to do with global warming or Al Gore. My truth is not inconvenient, this isn't about politics. It's about finding simple ways to help the environment while saving yourself time and money in the meantime!

I find more and more lately that being 'green' ignites a certain passion in everyone. Those who are applaud you while others will become defensive or hostile at the mear mention of the color.

A few days ago, I was having a discussion with some people. I mentioned that we had a problem with rabbits and moles in our gardens and I was trying to find a safe, non-toxic, non-harmful, organic way to deter them. My goodness did this spark a conversation! Next thing you know, I was defending myself for owning a microwave- being challenged for having a cell phone. If I mention trying to live environmentally friendly- suddenly everyone wants to prove I'm not!

I don't live in a commune. My house is not an organic fortress...but I do try to find little ways to conserve and improve my own health by eating less harmful foods.

The bottom line is that I have a studio in my house that uses energy while emitting electro-magnetic waves. That's just the way it is. I could quit my job, but I don't want to. I love my electronic equipment...mics, pre-amps, computers, mixers...I really love having them. I love my career and don't want to leave it. So, what to do? I have a favorite book I carry around with me. It's called "1001 Little Ways to Save Our Planet" by Esme Floyd. There are some great and simple ideas in this book!

In reference to being a voice actor, and for all my friends who own studios...here are a few suggestions from Floyd and myself:

1. Add a potted plant to your studio for each piece of electric equipment you own. It will help counter the negative effects of radiation while freshening the air you breathe.

2. Use a fan. Our equipment is hot, so add an energy conserving fan to your studio to avoid having to crank up the AC.

3. Add a fresh bowl of warm water to your studio each morning...this will help maintain humidity that is depleted by electronic equipment.

3. Set up near a window if possible. This way you can use natural light during the day instead of turning on a light. It is good for your eyes and your spirits to look outside!

4. Power down. Turn off your mic and pre-amp when not in use. Shut down your computer at night. If possible, unplug as well. Even when items are turned off, 5% of electricity is still being consumed.

5. Use envelopes from junk mail as scrap paper for your notes. Conserve paper.

6. Dust and vacuum! Keeping your equipment and vents clean will increase their overall efficiency.

7. When possible, buy used equipment. Just make sure it is in proper working condition!

8. Don't throw out old equipment. Sell it or find a place that will recycle it.

These are just a few easy ways to save money and help the environment in the meantime. Think of it this way- you are already helping the earth. Did you know it takes 450 years for a computer disc to degrade? By sending audio through e-mail, you are saving our planet!

Pretty simple stuff, eh?