Human activities damage the environment every day. The least we can do as individuals is reduce our impact on nature by keeping our daily actions as eco-friendly as possible. Practicing a minimal waste lifestyle is one of the best ways to achieve this.
If you really want to commit to an eco-friendly way of living, you should consider modifying your home to promote your new lifestyle. It’s one of the places where you spend the majority of your life, after all.
Start by modifying your kitchen, the most frequently-used place in your home. Here are a few things you should keep in mind when working your way towards a greener kitchen.
Equipment
Most home cooks prefer non-stick polymer-coated pans due to their ease of use, but they actually have a shorter lifespan than other options. Consider switching to cast iron pans, which have way better heat retaining properties than their polymer-coated counterparts and are far more durable.
Switch to wooden cooking implements, which last longer as long as you maintain them properly. They are sturdier compared to plastic or polymer-coated implements and are able to withstand higher temperatures. Bamboo is the best choice of material, as it also has antimicrobial properties.
Practice heat efficiency when cooking food. If you use your oven regularly, skip the preheating if the recipe allows it. You can also turn off your oven early and let the food cook in the residual heat. Use the right appliance for the right food to avoid consuming too much electricity. Consider your stove, as it is one of the most fuel-heavy appliances. You have two choices, namely gas and electricity. Look into the more energy-efficient option for your kitchen.
Remodeling Options
One of the inevitable parts of adjusting your home to an eco-friendly lifestyle is a remodel, especially if you want to be energy efficient. If your Salt Lake City home has outdated features, consider hiring a general contractor when doing your kitchen remodel to get plumbing and wiring issues sorted out easily.
Plan a layout that maximizes natural light, but make sure to keep your cooling appliances, such as refrigerators and air conditioners, out of the heat. They can end up consuming more power than expected when placed in an area with a warmer surrounding temperature.
Food Prep
When buying groceries, stick to organic and locally grown produce. Not only are you supporting your local farmers, you’re also sure that your food is chemical free. When packing your groceries, skip the plastic bags and use paper bags. Tote bags are also a good alternative.
Think reusable when it comes to food storage. Swap your Styrofoam containers and plastic wrap with beeswax wraps and parchment paper. Beeswax wraps are particularly useful as they can conform to most container openings and can be used multiple times.
Minimize food waste by using your leftovers in your future meals. Leftover meat and poultry can be used for salads or pasta dishes. If you’re growing a garden, consider adding inedible food waste to your compost pile, but ensure that your compost is stored properly to avoid contamination.
Switching to a more eco-friendly lifestyle can be challenging. But don’t feel frustrated during the adjusting period. Keep yourself motivated by focusing on how you’re not only benefiting yourself, but also the environment.