Go Home & Go Green: How to Minimize Waste in Your Kitchen
Globally, a third of the produce we grow is thrown away, culminating in 1.3 billion tons of food wasted each year. After facing these horrifyingly high numbers, most people gasp in disbelief, but then they just sigh and say, “Well, I personally don’t throw that much. I can’t be part of the problem!”
But that’s where most people go wrong. There are many ways, both big and small, that we can all help minimize food waste in our daily lives. If you really want to make a difference, one of the best ways to reduce food waste is to try to eliminate almost zero waste in your kitchen. We know this is easier said than done, but hear us out: there are four surprisingly simple add-ons to each and every quality kitchen that will reduce your waste like never before. Let’s see them!
1. Prioritize recycling and composting
One of the most important steps in reducing food waste is making recycling and composting a priority in your daily routine – no exceptions. By religiously recycling all plastic, metal, and glass, as well as allowing all organic leftovers to decompose, your carbon footprint is sure to take a much-needed impact. Plus, your garden can only benefit from the nutrient-rich soil that compost produces. It’s a win-win!
2. Reusable is all the rage
Progressive and quality kitchens are always equipped with storage containers that are reusable. After all, why use paper plates and plastic bags, which only create more waste? Instead, take a green approach to storing your leftovers by investing in some sturdy, washable containers that you can reuse over and over again. Even better if they are dishwasher safe!
3. Volume increase
In addition to packing reusable shopping bags every time you visit stores, it is wise to buy your essentials in bulk sizes whenever possible. Not only will this save you some shopping trips (once again it reduces your carbon footprint!), But you can also give yourself a pat on the back for going a little easier on Planet Earth – the wrapper to product ratio is lower when you buy a volume. packet of flour, baking soda, salt, or any other staple you may need.
4. Take advantage of quality kitchen cabinets
Last but most importantly, it’s not just about how it works in your kitchen, it’s about how you design it as well. If you are considering remodeling the space, we have a piece of advice for you: never underestimate the value of properly constructed cabinets, which can make a big difference when it comes to minimizing waste. When you invest in cabinets that take consumer needs into account, you can likely take inventory of what you have with a quick scan, rather than moving items around or bypassing them altogether. As a result, food is less likely to go to waste and you will not overstock. Who knew that quality kitchen cabinets could go this far?
Whether you’re planning to install new cabinets or not, it’s easy enough to make a few small changes to your shopping, cooking, and storage habits. By taking steps to minimize food waste, you are doing your part for our planet and its continued future (and hopefully bright!). And isn’t that worth a little sacrifice or two?