Creating a Sustainable Kitchen

Making a difference to our planetary health can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Starting within the home you can create a sustainable lifestyle that works for you, our planet and health. Follow us room-to-room as we help you create more sustainable spaces!

Creating a Sustainable Kitchen:

Kitchens are the heart of the home. Make yours beat with precision and strength by managing waste, reducing energy consumption, and making it a central focus for health and wellness.

Track your progress… Click below to print this as a checklist!

Manage Waste

  • Become educated about how your local recycling facility accepts materials.
  • Conduct a trash audit to see what you are throwing away and find opportunities to reduce waste.
  • Create designated recycling bins and label them to make recycling easy and ensure items comply.
  • Cook only what you need and consume your leftovers.
  • Shop for produce on an as-need basis to avoid food waste.
  • Compost vegetable and fruit scraps. *See our blog Easy Composting 101 to get started.
  • Use cloth napkins and towels instead of paper.
  • When paper towels are used, choose Select-A-Size for minimal waste.
  • Choose emailed receipts instead of printed receipts when eating out or grocery shopping.
  • Ask for no straws or lids when eating or carrying out.
  • Patron restaurants that use recyclable utensils and containers, and sustainable ingredients.

Reduce Energy and Water Use

  • Run dishwashers only when full; use short cycle when possible and hand dry.
  • Wash dishes in the dishwasher before choosing to wash by hand. If hand washing, be sure to use the “two sink” method, or fill up a sink for washing then rinse sparingly using cold water.
  • Install energy efficient LED lighting or CFL bulbs.
  • Turn off lights when your kitchen is not in use; install dimmers and sensor lighting.
  • Defrost your freezer when ice gets 1/4 thick; it will run more efficiently.
  • Invest in a pressure cooker to reduce your cooking time and energy used.
  • Upgrade your appliances when needed to energy-efficient options.
  • Use fewer trash bags; buy decomposable ones.
  • Schedule errands at one time and eat at home more often to save on gas.

Commit to Sustainable Foods and Products

  • Opt for food, cleaning and household products made of organic, cruelty-free and recycled materials.
  • Eat less meat; consume a plant-dominant diet.
  • Buy produce that is local and seasonal.
  • Purchase non-perishable foods in bulk.
  • Reach for products that use less packaging.
  • Swap out plastic scrubbers and sponges for dish cloths and natural fiber brushes with wooden handles.
  • Invest in and utilize reusable containers, bags and wraps made from sustainable materials for food shopping and transportation.