A green kitchen often means a healthier kitchen. From using cooking products that are eco-friendly to using ingrediants that won't harm the earth, most of these choices will have a benefits to your health while also promoting the health of the planet.
Natural kitchen cleaners. Green cleaning products use natural ingredients to keep your home - and your kitchen - clean, healthy and without the harmful chemical residues that can harm the environment. Check out Method brand or the new eco-friendly line from Clorox called Green Works.
Water filters. Avoid the use of bottled water buy purchasing a Brita filtration system for your faucet or a pitcher that has a water filter. Not only will it prevent plastic bottles from piling up in the local landfill, it will ensure that your drinking water is tasty and healthy, too.
Fair Trade coffee. Coffee is a staple in most kitchens. Consider purchasing fair trade coffee. In addition to being economically better for the world, fair trade certified coffee is shade grown, which prevents deforestation while providing a high-quality and great-tasting bean. It also ensures a good relationship between the producers of our beloved java and the consumers by establishing worker rights, fair wages and a competitive price for the coffee.
Reusable Cloth Shopping Bags. Keep a stash of cloth canvas bags on hand in your kitchen to bring to the grocery store. Not only do they reduce the amount of plastic waste, they also make a great carrying container for when you have to take food on the go. Reusable cloth bags are an essential in any green kitchen.
Cloth Napkins. Cloth napkins not only add an element of style and elegance to your dining experience, they are so much better for the environment. Cloth napkins are produced using environmentally toxic bleaches and dyes, and only end up in a landfill. Many retailers including Target and Ikea offer a wide variety of cloth napkin colors and styles. Or, if you happen to be bored this weekend you can make your own using your very own taste in material, color and style!
This is only the start of a green kitchen. Be sure to look into environmentally friendly cookware, plates and appliances. And never forget to stock your fridge and pantry with organic or locally produced goodies whenever you can!