11 Sustainability Tips para La Cocina

This month at Recetas we will focus on preserving our Pachamama (Mother Earth). Sustainability is something close to my heart and there are many place that we can explore how we can be more sustainable. We can start by looking at having an Eco-friendly kitchen. We all know how much time we spend in the kitchen, it’s where we feed our ourselves, our familias and create memories. But did you know that it’s also a place where we can make a big impact on our planeta? Let’s talk about how we can reduce our carbon footprint right in our kitchens.

1. ¡Empezamos con Composting! – One of the first things you can do is to start composting. You can compost most kitchen scraps, even in an apartment. Some cities even have drop-off locations for compost. It’s a great way to reduce waste and give back to Pachamama (Mother Earth).
2. Reduce Food Waste – Pay attention to portion sizes to avoid wasting food. On average, familias waste about 30% of the food they buy. While food can be composted, the packaging usually can’t.
3. Cambia your light bulbs – Switch out your old light bulbs for energy-saving LED bulbs. They last way longer and use much less energy.
4. Ilumina in the Right Places – When you’re setting up your lighting, think about where you really need it. You don’t need to light up the whole kitchen, just the areas where you work.
5. Considera Eco Friendly Tableware. Try your best to use real plates instead of disposable ones. Additionally, bamboo cutting boards and utensils as they are a renewable resource that is durable and biodegradable.
6. Compra Solo Energy Star Appliances– If you need new appliances, look for the Energy Star label. These appliances use less energy, saving you money in the long run.
7. Considera the Packaging You Use – Always think about the packaging when you buy something. Many containers, like those brightly colored detergent bottles, are not recyclable. Buy detergent bottles that are white, powdered detergent in cardboard, or detergent sheets.
8. No Tengas Miedo of Your Dishwasher – Don’t just use them to dry your platos. Dishwashers actually use less agua than washing dishes by hand. If you don’t believe me, test it out.
9. Decora Solo con Low VOC Paint – When you paint, use only low VOC paint to avoid harming the environment.
10. Usa Natural Cleaning Products – Instead of harsh chemicals, try using natural cleaners like vinagre and baking soda. They work just as well!
11. Usa Reusable Grocery Bags – Stop bringing home those plastic bags from the store. Use reusable bags instead. If you do end up with plastic bags, reuse them as much as you can. Order one of ours.
12. Deja de Usar Paper Towels – Buy reusable towels instead of paper towels. They’re great for everything from drying your hands to cleaning up spills. Just wash them and use them again.

Making our cocinas more sustainable is a simple way to help our Pachamama. All we need to do is reduce our waste and save energy where we can. Let’s make these changes together, amigas! Share any other tips you have for a Eco-friendly kitchen.