Upgrading the grid would also have a direct effect on consumers by saving families money through increased efficiency and reliability, while also helping utilities avoid blackouts and restore power quicker when they occur.
Consumers can reduce the amount of water through direct action - by applying a water-saving showerhead, shutting off the tap during teeth brushing, by not disposing of medicines, paints or other pollutants down the sink etc.
Last summer, ING Direct started a summer camp for kids that teaches earning, spending and saving lessons to about 1, 500 students in the Wilmington, Del.