Creating a Green Kitchen
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1. Replace:
Replace aging appliances with ENERGY STAR® products. These appliances are approved by the Environmental Protection Agency because they use 10-50% less energy than standard models. Even if you’re not in the market for a new refrigerator, oven, or dishwasher, you can start with replacing something as simple as your lighting with ENERGY STAR® bulbs to make your kitchen (and other rooms) greener.
2. Filter:
If you don’t use a water filtration system for your drinking water, start to! Bottled water only adds to plastic waste. You can start with something as simplistic as a filter pitcher that you refill and keep in your fridge, or you could set up a more elaborate under-the-sink filtration system.
3. Build Conscientiously:
Build with renewable or recycled materials. Materials such as wood and bamboo are optimal for cabinetry. Use eco-friendly paints or stains with low VOCs, low biocides, and natural pigments (read the labels carefully)—these products emit fewer harmful toxins. Re-use salvaged cabinetry to create a vintage look in your kitchen. For an eclectic (though expensive) flooring option, choose salvaged stones and ceramics.
4. Clean Smart:
Use organic cleaning products to tidy up your kitchen. You will not only be protecting the earth and the air, but your own health. Toxic chemicals are harmful to breath, and become nasty pollutants. Rely on old stand-bys like baking soda or vinegar when possible.
5. Recycle:
Set up a recycling area, if you don’t already have one designated. Separate your glass, paper, and plastic from your food wastes, to keep the remnants of your cooking from piling up in a landfill, miles away. If you’re really serious about keeping the earth healthy, set up composting for those food wastes so that you’re not contributing anything to the city dump.
These tips offer only a sampling of the ways you can make your kitchen green. If you’d like to learn more about green building and remodeling options for your kitchen, speak with an experienced kitchen remodeling contractor who can outline the best materials, appliances, and design options to help you home become more eco-friendly.
