Chileans Ditch Ties to Save Energy

Chile's government is keen on reducing energy consumption through a new ingenious method. It wants ties, the mark of every well-dressed businessman to remain in the closet during summer, to limit the usage of air conditioners.

The example is set by Chile's Economy Minister Pablo Longueira. "As economy minister I'm joining this campaign to save energy by taking off my tie. Let's take off our ties and save energy," declared Longueira in a statement.

The measure will help save energy and money, at a time when every cent counts. Moreover, during summer, hydroelectric facilities provide less power so measures preserving the amount of energy are welcome.

The same path has already been adopted by Japan and Spain, two countries that have bragged about good results experienced due to this unconventional strategy.

Even if ads and TV spots are used to boost the popularity of this campaign in Chile, some authorized voices reveal that a formal dress code is a key element for every respectable businessman and that this concept shouldn't be transformed by compromises, even when they are designed to support a good cause.

“The president can't be in certain situations without a tie.[...]There are things that come with formality and structure,” explains Gonzalo Castro, a Santiago resident, as the video below can confirm.

On the other hand, a cooler temperature maintained in offices can translate into important energy and financial savings, according to Energy Minister Rodrigo Alvarez.

"It's a small gesture and I want to underscore it. It's a simple gesture, but one that helps energy efficiency. There are countries like Japan and Spain that have been able to reduce air conditioning in a notable way. It's helps save money first and at the same time helps save energy," notes Alvarez.

The main idea is to convince Chileans to be a little less formal, leave their ties at home and turn down their air conditioners, to experience significant savings.