Outwit, outlast, out-conserve

The environmentalists were the final survivors in a reality TV show that aired on Boston-area cable recently. "Energy Smackdown" pitted three suburban families against each other in a contest to reduce their carbon footprints by at least 30%.

This was one reality show without tears and recriminations.

The Christian Science Monitor recently interviewed the contestants. While each family was already at a level of eco-friendliness, they all found simple, fun ways to conserve energy around the house.

From closing the fireplace flue to using cloth napkins, everyone saved far more than the minimum CO2 levels. Plus, they got their neighborhoods involved in a "community challenge" episode. One family bought 176 compact fluorescent light bulbs and gave them to friends.

Not only did the winning family get to gloat over being greenest, they're saving 25% on their energy bill. Pretty nice reward.

The TV producer is heading to Medford, Arlington, and Cambridge, MA, for the show's second season. In the next series, whole communities will compete. Interested? Email info@energysmackdown.com for details.

Watch clips of the past series and get ideas on how to lower your energy use at Energy Smackdown.