10 quick ways to be eco-friendly in the kitchen

1. COMPOST YOUR FOOD WASTE.

2. SAVE VEGGIE SCRAPS TO MAKE INTO DELICIOUS HOMEMADE BROTH.

3. PLAN YOUR MEALS AHEAD TO REDUCE FOOD WASTE.

4. USE WAX FOOD WRAPS OR CLOTH BOWL COVERS RATHER THAN PLASTIC WRAP.

5. SHOP THE BULK SECTION WITH YOUR OWN CONTAINERS.

6. CHOOSE “UGLY” PRODUCE THAT OTHERWISE WON’T BE PURCHASED.

7. ASK FOR NO PLASTIC CUTLERY WHEN ORDERING TAKEOUT.

8. REGROW VEGGIES (SUCH AS GREEN ONIONS).

9. USE CLOTHS RATHER THAN PAPER TOWEL.

10. DRINK TAP WATER WHEN SAFE TO DO SO.

Gear and gadgets

Whether you’re a kitchen minimalist or you have every gadget under the sun, the objects you use can be a conscious choice based on practicality, health, and sustainability.

Pots and pans

Concerned about nonstick coatings on cookware? The issue is complicated. Research shows that perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and its salts might be carcinogenic based on animal studies; however, this doesn’t necessarily translate to humans and doesn’t mean there is a risk of exposure from using nonstick cookware. That said, PFOA is persistent in the environment, and its use is being phased out.

Nonstick cookware can be prone to damage unless treated very gently. From a waste perspective, investing in cookware that will last for a very long time is key. Stainless steel and cast iron are examples of cookware that can last for many years.

Coffee makers

Making coffee at home can save money but often creates waste. To avoid unnecessary plastic pollution, steer clear of single-use coffee pods. Instead, consider a low-waste option, such as a pour-over (you can even use reusable filters), French press, or stovetop percolator. Don’t forget the organic, fair trade coffee!

PLASTIC-FREE TEA

Tea bags made out of plastic can release billions of tiny particles of plastic into the tea we drink. To avoid microplastic in your tea, try bulk tea steeped in a stainless steel tea strainer, or opt for plastic-free tea bags.

Pay It Forward

No longer want your slow cooker or rice maker? If there’s something you no longer use, a very sustainable choice is to pass it along to a friend or neighbour who will use it.

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