Eco-consultants, like Jason Pelletier, left, are selling advice to worried consumers on energy efficiency, indoor air quality and even methods for creating an eco-conscious wardrobe. Here, he meets with Alina Sanchez and George Bryson, from Los Angeles, who hired him to discuss reducing their carbon footprint.
Photo: Michal Czerwonka for The New York Times
Mr. Pelletier visited their three-bedroom home to create a customized plan for the family of four. Among other things, he suggested selling their two cars, a Saab and a Volvo, and buy hybrids instead. Ms. Bryson and Ms. Sanchez declined, saying they were holding out for electric cars someday.
Three years ago, when Mr. Pelletier started out in his field, his clients were looking to keep up with their Prius-driving neighbors. But now, he said, his clients are looking to save money on their energy bills. At left, he checks the efficiency of the dishwasher in Mr. Bryson's and Ms. Sanchez's kitchen.
Mr. Pelletier suggested switching to compact fluorescent light bulbs, and later followed up with a detailed report that compared the couple's consumption to the average for their region. About a third of the country's carbon dioxide emissions come from generating electricity.
 
The debate over whether individual actions matter at all continues, but that is not to say there's no environmental benefit to be had from reducing energy and water consumption. One economist said it is important that the United States serves as an example to developing countries. At left, Mr. Pelletier checks out the water levels in the couple's toilet.
David J. C. MacKay, a physics professor at the University of Cambridge, said small consumer gestures are "like bailing the Titanic with a teaspoon." His own suggestions: turning down the thermostat in the winter, flying less and buying less. Mr. Pelletier examined the couple's washer and dryer for energy efficiency.
Mr. Pelletier looks at the couple's irrigation controller in their garage, which they had considered insulating to use as an office and music studio. He also suggested insulating the attic to save on heating and cooling costs.
 

Although their energy use was acceptable, Ms. Sanchez and Mr. Bryson failed Mr. Pelletier's test on water consumption. He pinpointed their sprinkler system as the culprit and advised them to cut their use by 30 to 40 percent.
Ms. Sanchez studies the analysis of her home prepared by Mr. Pelletier. After reviewing it, she and Mr. Bryson decided to reprogram their sprinklers to reduce water use and are considering installing a solar water heater and carpooling.