Over the last couple of articles, we have seen how humans moved from a wood-based energy source to coal and from coal to oil. With the onset of the industrial revolution, new innovations such as electricity and transportation, our energy needs ... READ MORE
Category: Natural Resources
As we reach the peak of the springtime dry season in Florida, it is a time to be extra-aware of wildfire risks. Pasco County Fire Rescue's social media page recently reminded residents of the importance of being fire-wise around our homes and ... READ MORE
Category: Disaster Preparation, Forests, Home Landscapes, UF/IFAS, Water, Wildlife
Registration is now open for Sarasota County's 17th Annual Sustainable Communities Workshop on Nov. 01. This day-long, first hybrid (in-person and online) event showcases strategies for healthy, resilient, thriving communities. About the workshop Under ... READ MORE
Category: Conservation, Natural Resources
As the summer heat returns, residents of another Sarasota Housing Authority property will receive some relief from high utility bills, thanks to a team of dedicated specialists and volunteers. Sarasota County Sustainability staff and a team ... READ MORE
Category: Conservation, Money Matters![a young woman cools down after a workout in florida heat. [credit: uf/ifas extension sarasota county]](https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/sarasotaco/wp-content/blogs.dir/40/files/2023/08/2025_Sust_heatAliaWorkout_IMG3836CROP1650x470_ufsaraext.png)
Cities often feel significantly hotter than surrounding rural areas due to the urban heat island (UHI) effect. Urban heat islands are caused by the concentration of surfaces that retain and absorb heat, such as buildings, roads, and pavement. ... READ MORE
Category: Work & Life
The Department of Energy designates every October as National Energy Awareness Month, to show the importance of responsible energy consumption. While technologies have changed and evolved since the early 1990s, energy efficiency has remained ... READ MORE
Category: Conservation
Did you know the air inside your home can cause health issues? Sometimes our indoor air can affect our health more than the air outside. Especially because Americans spend an average of 90% of their days inside. We’ve created a list of ... READ MORE
Category: Conservation, Health & Nutrition, Home Management, UF/IFAS Extension, Work & Life
The United States has celebrated National Energy Awareness Month every October since 1991, when President George H. W. Bush encouraged our country to be conscious of our nationwide energy usage. We still honor this presidential ... READ MORE
Category: Conservation, Money Matters, UF/IFAS Extension
A Short History of the Energy Upgrade Program The Energy Upgrade program was established in 2012 to educate homeowners in Sarasota County on energy and water efficiency. In 2016, based on community research, the program expanded to include ... READ MORE
Category: Community Volunteers, Home Management, Money Matters, Professional Development
The holiday season in Florida is a time for celebration, often bringing unique energy challenges related to lighting displays and occasional heating needs. By implementing smart strategies for decorating, cooking, and climate control, you can ... READ MORE
Category: Conservation, UF/IFAS Extension