Eco-Lingo: Green Energy

Eco-lingo is being tossed around left and right these days. We're demystifying common terms to help you figure out which words are the real deal... and which are just green jargon. .

Today's word: Green Energy

Definition: We'll start with the most common rumor: Does green energy create zero pollution and carbon emissions? Not quite. But the fact that it creates far less waste than traditional energy sources is still enough to make a difference that should stave off global warming and preserve our planet longer. Green energy isn't a specific type of energy, rather it's a category that other kinds of energy fall under: geothermal, wind, solar, hydro and nuclear power all qualify as green. Fossil fuel, coal and oil? Not so much.

If you want to harness green energy in your home, try utilizing solar or windmill technology. Install solar hot water panels or solar panels to convert sunlight into electricity. Or buy a windmill that generates energy out of, well, wind. Who knew it could be so easy?

Next on green energy's agenda? Clean coal technology, a cleaned-up version of fossil fuel energy technology. Scientists are still trying to get the energy out of coal without the harmful side effects. Stay tuned...

Verdict: The Real Deal. Who can argue with preserving the planet?