From Guest Blogger Romeo: Ways to Go Green in Your Kitchen – Save Money and the Environment

In a study released by the US Environment Protection Agency, an average household within the United States spends at least $2,000 annually on energy and utility bills. In addition, the continued population growth contributed to a huge increase in water consumption, air pollution, and waste. The agency, along with numerous other organizations, encourages homes to adapt to a greener and more environment friendly lifestyles.

Shifting to a green kitchen is easy. Along with helping the environment, you will also be able save thousands of dollars when you choose to go green.

Upgrade to A More Environment Friendly Kitchen

Kitchens are usually one of the areas in your homes that will consume a huge amount of energy. This means you should consider updating the area to make it more adaptable to the current energy-saving trend. Changing your flooring, lighting, windows, and range hood will help you save thousands of dollars in the next 10-15 years. Simple changes such as installing a more energy efficient lighting, trading your current range hood to a more appropriate size, and adding barriers on your window during cold months will help you save energy.

Break Old Habits

Adapt to a more environment friendly lifestyle by breaking old habits and adapting to a healthier one. Consider changing your meal plans to make full use of your oven or stove. Take note, a meal that includes roast vegetables and meat together will be able to maximize the use of the oven, in comparison to using roasting the meat and boiling the veggies on the stove. Add more meals that do not require heating like salads or gourmet sandwiches.

Load Your Dishwasher

(image source: Aquasanita)

Experts estimate that using the dishwasher saves 37% more water than washing the dishes by hand. To maximize the use of your dishwasher, you will need to wait until you have a full load. Running one full load saves more energy, as well as, water compared to running two half full loads.

Use Your Fridge Wisely

Your fridge is one of the appliances in your home that can waste so much energy when not used properly. Never browse in front of the fridge and keeping the door open. From time to time, test the rubber seal on your refrigerator door to check if there are any cold air leaks. Wise use of the refrigerator will save your home thousands of dollars in energy bills.

Area for Recycling

The kitchen is famous for generating so much waste day in and out. Encourage every member of your family to start the habit of recycling. Choose products that have less packaging and those that have recycled materials on the label are worthy buys. Set up an area around your kitchen for recycling, this ensures that all recyclable items are placed in one place and does not accumulate clutter. Choose a bin that can be closed easily and tightly to place your recycled waste.

Implementing a green and eco-friendly kitchen is easy and beneficial. You can save both money and the environment when you adapt to a green lifestyle. In addition, a green home and lifestyle, means you choose better living and health.