Buzzword: Energy Anorexia

What it means. Rooted in the serious medical condition anorexia, energy anorexia refers to a situation in which people follow an extremely strict carbon-footprint-shrinking regimen. (Carborexia and greenorexia are other names for this approach to living.) The New York Times used the term "energy anorexics" in the October 19 article "Completely Unplugged, Fully Green," which reported on people dedicated to using significantly less energy in many aspects of their lives.

Why the buzz? In these energy-conscious times and in a country where a fad or fashion of the moment can spur significant lifestyle changes or even turn into fanaticism, some folks have become energy anorexics. The Times piece sparked great debate on the Web, with the blog of Sharon Astyk the epicenter of much of the discussion. Astyk, who was featured in the article, took issue with the story in a recent post, noting, for example, that her son doesn't play organized baseball due to scheduling conflicts with her family's observance of the Jewish Sabbath, not because she doesn't want to drive him too far to play. And commenters on the blog defended her energy-minded lifestyle.

Most of our buzzword items highlight trends in industry or society at large, and the terms are generally tame. But energy anorexia and energy anorexics seem harsh and insensitive given the difficult medical issue from which they're derived. Indeed, similar terms like "true greens" and "enlighteneds" might be a better way to get across the idea.

So we'll leave it to you to come up with a catchy, complimentary expression for people who are environmentally impassioned and acting upon their beliefs. Post your suggestion(s) in a comment below, where you can also share information on how you're working to save energy on your own.—Daniel DiClerico

Essential information: There's no need for extreme measures to save energy at home, as detailed in our October 2008 "Save Energy, Save Money" feature, this tip of the day, and the Buzzword on weatherization.