From eliminating single-use plastics to minimizing food waste there are lots of basic but powerful changes you can make in your kitchen which will see to it that your kitchen changes into an eco-friendly stronghold. Here is a listicle guide shared by Nidhi Aggarwal, Founder, of SpaceMantra for building an easy zero-waste swap that is bound to help you on your way to a more sustainable kitchen. (Pics: Freepik)
Say no to single-use plastic bags as a storage alternative for fruits and vegetables and purchase reusable mesh or cloth produce bags instead. They are a game changer since they are washable, eco-friendly, and can keep produce fresh for an extended period.
Switch to beeswax wraps instead of plastic cling wrap. The beeswax wraps made of cotton are impregnated by resin, beeswax, and jojoba oil, which is environmentally friendly, reusable and biodegradable instead of plastic wraps.
Rather than using plastic containers that are thrown away, choose glass jars and containers to store your leftovers or pantryware. They are sturdy, microwave-friendly as well as simple to use for putting several kinds of foods.
Make your compost bin in your kitchen to throw cooked and uncooked foods that can decompose including fruits and vegetables, coffee grounds and eggshells. The composting will help to reduce the generation of landfill waste and will result in the production of high-quality soil for gardening.
Invest in a durable and high-quality reusable water bottle and coffee cup to avoid buying single-use plastic bottles day by day. Goras or polished glass are environmentally friendly alternatives to prior ones that are economically durable as well.
Replace disposable paper towels and napkins with reusable cloth ones. The use of cloth napkins and towels not only reduces paper waste but also enhances the beauty and class of your dining experience.
Opt for purchasing dried items such as grains, legumes and spices in bulk from zero-waste shops or bulk sections at grocery stores. Bring your reusable containers or bags to minimize packaging waste.
Combine some of the simplest ingredients, including vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils, to prepare your cleaning products. Homemade cleaners do not only work but they are safe for the environment and in addition, they will cut the frequent purchase of these products packaged in plastic bottles.
Go with yourself a reusable utensils and straw set, to avoid disposable plastic cutlery and straws when having a meal outside or by ordering a takeaway. Either stainless steel or bamboo variants are a great option because of their portability and durability.
Try out food preservation methods like canning, pickling, and fermenting to keep the edible yet perishable longer and reduce food waste. These methodologies not only will do away with packaging waste but also add taste and richness to your dishes.
Place a bowl or basin in the sink while you are washing fruits and vegetables and use the collected water for other purposes such as for plant watering or cleaning compounds. Consequently, recycling the excess water used for boiling pasta or steaming vegetables for garden beds or indoor plants is an added value.