We’re all looking for solutions to help the environment. Whether it’s reducing our carbon footprint or conserving precious resources, we want to do whatever we can to make a difference.
While most eco-living news stories focus on the big-ticket items like transport, housing and energy usage, we mustn’t ignore the small changes we can make in our daily life. A great place to start is in the kitchen. It doesn’t matter if it’s your kitchen at home, at work or a commercial kitchen, making these 5 small changes will have a positive long-term impact on the environment.
Let’s take a closer look at 5 ways you can help your kitchen ‘go green’!
5 Small Changes To Help The Environment
1 Minimise Water Usage
Do you ever feel guilty about running a dishwasher that’s half full? For a small office where you only use a handful of cups and cutlery, it’s more efficient (in energy and water) to invest in a compact dishwasher.
A product like Freshcup is the ideal solution as it allows you to hygienically wash a small number of cups, glasses, cutlery and plates in just 30 seconds. Compare that to running a dishwasher for nearly 2 hours – you get the same result without wasting a lot of water and energy. Another environmental benefit of Freshcup is its biodegradable detergent. It contains no phosphates or silicates, making it a safe option for you and the planet.
2 Ditch the Disposables
Our desire to purchase and consume products is not slowing down. As customers, we need to look at the products we’re buying and consider the impact they have on the environment.
Think about your morning visit to the coffee shop. Unless you take a keep cup with you, you’re getting your coffee in a disposable cup. Unfortunately, disposable coffee cups are not recyclable – mainly due to the plastic waterproof lining inside the cup. This means millions of cups are going to landfill. If it’s quality coffee you’re after, why not invest in a quality compact coffee machine for your home or office. Apart from reducing the number of plastics in landfill, you’ll also be saving yourself plenty of money.
We also need to reduce our consumption of products that can be recycled. One company, Ditch 3, has found the perfect eco-friendly alternative to disposable cleaning bottles. Ditch 3 cleaning tablets eliminate the need to buy multiple cleaning spray bottles – you simply buy one then refill it with a cleaning tablet and water. It saves money, space and most importantly, the environment.
3 Start a Recycling and Waste Bin System
We’ve spoken about coffee cups going to landfill but what about other waste products? It’s important to do everything you can to separate rubbish from material that can be recycled or composted. Using a multi-bin system in the office or at home makes it easier for everyone to do their part for the environment.
4 Use Commercial Quality, Energy Efficient Appliances
If you want to reduce your energy consumption long term, you need to shop for high quality, energy efficient appliances. Commercial quality products may cost more upfront than your standard suburban store appliances but you’ll be getting a much better product.
Many commercial quality products are also designed to last longer. So, not only will you pay less on your energy bills, but you won’t have to replace your appliances as often. It goes without saying that commercial kitchens should buy commercial quality products, but you should also consider them for the home or office. Don’t compare products on purchase price alone, look at the energy consumption and quality of the manufacturer.
5 Invest in Quality Reusable Containers
Australia is fast moving away from single-use plastics – that includes containers. All kitchens need to store food safely and hygienically, so look for quality containers that will keep your food fresh and can be used over and over again. Be sure to choose a product that can withstand hot and cold temperatures.
Hopefully, you can implement these 5 tips into your home, office or commercial kitchen. Remember, even a small change can have a big environmental impact long term.
To find out how else you can help your kitchen ‘go green’, contact the team at Stanlee Hospitality Supplies. You can also see the full range online or visit the store at 79 Walters Drive, Osborne Park.