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Recipe for a greener kitchen
04/08/2025
When it comes to your kitchen, you might think of "green" as the vegetables you're supposed to eat. Being green in the kitchen, however, goes beyond what's on your plate. The appliances you use can save you time and money on your energy bills while helping the environment. Even how and where you buy your groceries can have a significant impact. Here are some tips to help make your kitchen green.
Buy in bulk, but don't overspend
On your next trip to the grocery store, consider buying your groceries in bulk. Buying in bulk decreases the amount of packing thrown away and means fewer trips to the store. But don't buy things you don't need! Stick to your grocery list to avoid throwing away food or other items that may end up in the local landfill.
Become a gardener
You don't need a green thumb to start a garden. All you need to do is plant a few fruits, vegetables or herbs that you can eat or use to prepare meals. Don't have the time to garden? Find a nearby farmers market and buy local. Local produce is sold right after it's picked, making it fresher and more nutrient-rich than produce from the store.
Choose your oven and keep it clean
Electric and gas ovens each have their advantages. Electric ovens typically cost more, but are more energy efficient. A slow cooker is the most energy-efficient option, and because it needs little to no supervision, it allows you to focus on other tasks while cooking. No matter which type you choose, keeping your oven clean will make it work more efficiently, saving energy and money.
Use ENERGY STAR® kitchen appliances
When purchasing new kitchen appliances, make sure they have the ENERGY STAR label. ENERGY STAR-certified appliances use less energy than standard models, while still providing the performance you expect.
Keep the leftovers
You probably often have leftovers after meals. Instead of throwing them away, consider ways to reuse them. For example, leftover chicken could be added to soup. Start a weekly leftovers night and eat any foods remaining from your meals over the course of the week. With a variety of foods on the table, everyone can find something to eat and nothing will go to waste.
Combining these ingredients will help you save money and reduce waste in your kitchen.
