This holiday season if you absolutely must give someone an electronic gizmo for a present (I would suggest a book, or something you made yourself) you should be sure that said gizmo is marked with the Energy Star labele, you are helping someone save money on their energy bill and protect the environment by fighting climate change.

In fact, the typical homeowner can save more than 30 percent, or about $700 on annual energy bills with Energy Star labeled products. EPA has identified a few products to keep your eye out for as you start holiday shopping:

+ Televisions. They are now up to 30 percent more energy efficient than standard models and use less energy when they are on, off or in standby.
+ Computers. They use up to 50 percent less energy than conventional models, depending on use. And, when you plug in your new computer, make sure its power-management features are enabled.
+ Rechargeable tools. Cordless hand vacuums, electric screwdrivers and universal battery chargers, on average, use 35 percent less energy than conventional models.
+ Decorative light strings. Featuring LED technology, they use 75 percent less electricity than conventional incandescent light strings, are available in a variety lengths, colors, shapes and sizes, and are much more durable and shock-resistant than other light strings.

Check http://www.epa.gov/ and http://www.energystar.gov/ to find out how you can give a gift to Mother Earth this holiday season. And remember the best way to save electricity, remove emissions from the air, and lessen the load on land fills is to not buy any of these things at all! But if you really really really want that new TV make sure you are buying one that uses as little energy as possible. Your wallet will thank you, and so will the earth.