Taking steps towards a greener kitchen
It may not seem at first thought that the way in which your kitchen is set up can have a big effect on your carbon footprint - but there are a number of kitchen related factors that, when added up, can have a significant impact. So if you're keen on running a more eco-friendly household then the kitchen is the place to start.
One of the biggest ways in which you can ensure a greener kitchen is by checking the energy efficiency rating of your appliances and replacing any poorly performing machines. Kitchen appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers, fridges and ovens all come with relevant ratings as specified by the Energy Saving Trust. While it may seem like a big outlay to replace certain appliances just because of an energy efficiency rating, once you take into account the amount of money you would save over the long term by using a more efficient machine it begins to make sense.
If you are determined to do everything you can to increase the eco credentials of your kitchen, don't fall into the trap of automatically assuming that washing dishes and cutlery by hand will prove better for the environment than using your dishwasher. A recent study in The Guardian revealed that in the majority of cases using a dishwasher is actually better for the environment - the reason being that many of us wash up by hand in an inefficient manner by leaving the tap running too long or by using needlessly hot water. The figures showed that a dishwasher set to 55°C produced a carbon footprint of 77g CO2e (carbon dioxide equivalent) while those who wash by hand often produce up to a staggering 8000g CO2e.
Another way in which you can improve the efficiency of your kitchen is to get into the habit of using the economy setting on any appliances that offer it - it's all too easy to just press the button you are used to using without giving it too much thought, but given the chance it's likely that the economy setting will do the job you need it to while using less energy.
Lighting is another area in which you can make big strides in energy efficiency. Maximise natural lighting where possible and think about using a low energy spotlight system to illuminate any specific areas such as worktops as and when needed.
There is plenty you can do away from the electrics, of course. Go out of your way to recycle food packaging wherever possible rather than dumping it in a general bin bag. By ensuring that you have sufficient space for relevant recycling bags and boxes in your kitchen you can turn recycling into an activity that takes a matter of seconds rather than something that feels like a chore.
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Check the energy efficiency rating of your appliances, such as dishwashers, washing machines, fridges and ovens.
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