Appliances left on standby can often be consuming as much if not more energy when on standby than when being used for the purpose for which they are designed.   In July 2005 this was demonstrated on BBC Breakfast Television by Keith Tovey when a household in Sheffield was put under the spot light.    The family had a CD/radio which they used for one hour in the morning and then left it on standby.   The analysis showed that twice as much energy was used when on standby than that when in actual use.    Televisions are another key example, and though modern TVs have a much lower standby consumption,  older models could easily save 25% or more by individuals switching them off when not in use.   A main consideration when buying a new appliance such as a television is to ensure it has no more than 1W consumption on standby. 

A tumble dryer uses around four times as much energy per cycle as the equivalent washing machine.  Drying clothes on a washing line saves energy, reduces carbon emissions and most importantly saves money.   Reducing the frequency of using a tumble dryer by once a week will save around £10 per year. 

In the case of transport, unnecessary emissions and also pollution arise from those who sit in their cars when they are stationary (e.g. in car parks, outside schools etc) with the engine running.   Turning the engine off will also save the occupant money.