5 Eco-Friendly Kitchen Practices

Small Changes, Big Impact: 

Are you worried about climate change but feel powerless to do anything about it? Fighting it may seem bigger than us, but we can all do our part by taking small, doable actions that will help the environment.

One area where a small change has the potential to make a big impact is the kitchen. Here are five small things you can do in the kitchen to help climate change:

1. Reduce food waste: Food waste is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, is produced when food ends up in landfills. Also, did you know that, according to the FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India), 1/3^rd of all food in India is wasted or gets spoilt before it is eaten? That’s a lot of food wastage. To reduce food waste, plan your meals, create a shopping list, and store perishable items properly. Use leftovers creatively like making soup or stir-fry or donate excess food to local food banks. You can also compost any food scraps you can’t use.

2. Conserve energy by using energy-efficient appliances: If you’re in the market for new kitchen appliances, look for ones that are energy-efficient. Save energy in the kitchen by using energy-efficient appliances and cooking methods. When using the stove, match the pot size to the burner size to avoid energy loss. Make sure to turn off appliances and lights when they're not in use. You can also consider using cookwares like Vinod’s Anodised Kadai. It is made from hard anodised virgin aluminum which helps absorb heat faster, making it more energy efficient.

3. Buy local and organic: When you buy local produce, it doesn't have to travel as far to get to your plate. This means fewer emissions from transportation, which is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. Organic farming practices prioritize sustainability and environmental protection. Organic farmers use natural methods to control pests and diseases, and they avoid using harmful chemicals and pesticides. This in turn creates a healthier ecosystem for plants, animals, and insects promoting biodiversity. This helps to support a diverse range of species and creates a more resilient and sustainable food system. Buying local and organic produce can have a big impact on the environment, promote biodiversity, and also support sustainable farming practices.

4. Opt for sustainable cooking methods: Choose cooking methods that require less energy, such as steaming, microwaving, or pressure cooking. These methods are more energy-efficient compared to boiling or baking. Additionally, consider using a toaster oven or microwave for small cooking tasks instead of heating up the entire oven. Remember to consider the size of the cooking task and match it with the appropriate cooking method to minimize energy usage.

5. Use sustainable kitchen products: In spite of widespread awareness regarding the harmful effects of the use of plastic, its use is still prevalent and rampant. So much so that microplastics have now been detected in human blood![1] In the kitchen, there are many ways to reduce your plastic use. Avoid single-use plastic items like straws, utensils, and water bottles. Instead, use reusable alternatives. Use reusable bags when grocery shopping, beeswax wraps instead of plastic wraps, and reusable containers instead of plastic ones for food storage. You can also consider carrying your own containers to the store for bulk items.

Remember, even small changes can add up to make a difference in the fight against climate change. Every little bit helps, and together we can make a big impact.

Do you have any other green ways to run your kitchen? Do let us know in the comment section below.