Tips For a More Eco-Friendly Kitchen

The kitchen is a great place to make some changes to be more eco-friendly.  From shopping to cooking, there are many ways to live more sustainably.

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Reusable shopping bags

Using reusable shopping bags is an easy way to cut down on waste.  Reusable bags reduce waste, both paper or plastic.  You can also find reusable produce bags.

Buy in bulk, less packaging

Buying in bulk is a great way to reduce the amount of packaging that you use.  You can even find stores that have dispensers for items such as rice, so you can bring your own reusable containers.

Otherwise, consider portioning things such as snacks, to reduce single-portion sizes with more packaging. You can use your own reusable packaging for small portions.

Reusable containers / straws / etc

Reusable containers are a great way to reduce single-serve bags or other disposable food storage.  You can also find reusable utensils and straws, such as stainless straws. There are also biodegradable, compostable straws.

Even better than plastic, look for plastic alternatives such as glass and stainless storage. Instead of using plastic wrap, opt for something like Bees Wrap, which is a reusable waxed fabric. Instead of plastic sandwich bags, use paper sandwich bags.

Look for safe cookware, storage, etc.

Do your research when it comes to things like safe cookware. Avoid toxic coatings such as teflon, and opt for products that do not leach chemicals.  Stainless or cast iron cookware is a great way to go.

Glass is a good alternative to plastic, including tupperware and drink storage.

Avoid food waste

A great way to go more eco-friendly is to focus on reducing food waste.  Find ways to save foods before they go bad.  You can cut up fruits and freeze them for smoothies, or portion out leftovers to put in the freezer for easy access.

Another good way to reduce food waste is to have a meal planning strategy.  You can also work on a pantry, fridge, and freezer cleanout on a regular basis to use up items that are approaching expiration.

Compost

A compost bin is a great way to get rid of food scraps and other biodegradable items, instead of sending them to the landfill. You can set up a countertop food scrap bin that allows you to collect scraps between trips to the compost bin.

Eco-friendly cleaning

Eco-friendly kitchen cleaning products are not only better for the environment, but safer for you and your family. Find more natural cleaning products, including dish soap and dish detergent.  Using natural products on surfaces such as counters will reduce exposure to chemicals.

You can also green up your cleaning routine by using cloth kitchen rags instead of paper towels.  If you prefer to use paper towels, use ones that contain recycled content.  There are eco-friendly sponges as well, which do not contain plastic.

Efficient lighting & appliances

Use energy efficient lights, such as LED lights.

Also look for Energy Star appliances to reduce energy use.

Houseplants

Plants are a great way to improve air quality.  You can even try to grow a small windowsill garden with herbs!

Buy Local

Local products have a smaller carbon footprint, from food to household supplies.  It is also a great way to support the local economy.  When you can’t buy local, look for products that are sustainable and fair-trade.