Practical, actionable tips to make your kitchen more eco-friendly. Small changes that make a big impact.
of food in America is wasted
Average family wastes per year on food
of household waste is compostable
Replace paper towels with reusable cloths
Start a kitchen herb garden
Make your own vegetable broth from scraps
Buy a reusable water bottle and never buy plastic bottles again
Switch to bar soap for dishes instead of liquid
Use natural sponges or Swedish dishcloths
Plan "use what you have" meals before grocery shopping
Save glass jars for storage instead of buying containers
Use reusable produce bags instead of plastic bags at the grocery store
Store leftovers in glass containers instead of plastic wrap
Start composting your food scraps to reduce landfill waste
Buy in bulk to reduce packaging waste
Make your own cleaning products with simple ingredients
Use beeswax wraps or silicone lids instead of plastic wrap
Use lids when cooking to reduce cooking time and energy use
Batch cook meals to maximize oven and stovetop efficiency
Let food cool before refrigerating to reduce fridge workload
Use the right-sized burner for your pots and pans
Clean refrigerator coils twice a year for optimal efficiency
Unplug small appliances when not in use
Run dishwasher only when full to maximize water efficiency
Collect pasta water to water plants (once cooled)
Fix leaky faucets immediately to prevent water waste
Scrape plates instead of pre-rinsing before dishwasher
Use a basin to wash vegetables and reuse water for plants
Install a low-flow faucet aerator to reduce water flow
Buy local and seasonal produce to reduce transport emissions
Choose products with minimal or recyclable packaging
Invest in quality tools that last instead of cheap disposables
Shop farmers markets to support local and reduce packaging
Look for eco-certifications like USDA Organic, Fair Trade
Bring reusable bags and containers for all shopping trips
Meal plan weekly to avoid buying food you won't use
Use "first in, first out" method to rotate food in your fridge
Freeze bread, herbs, and produce before they spoil
Save vegetable scraps to make homemade stock
Learn proper food storage techniques to extend freshness
Get creative with leftovers instead of throwing them away
Cook with cast iron instead of non-stick for durability
Use pressure cookers to reduce cooking time by up to 70%
Choose recipes that use the whole vegetable (including stems and leaves)
Air dry dishes instead of using dishwasher heat dry
Keep your oven door closed while cooking to maintain temperature
Use residual heat by turning off burners a few minutes early
Commit to making one sustainable change each day for 30 days and transform your kitchen
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