Reducing waste in your kitchen is a great way to care for the environment - and the best part is, you'll get to make some decent savings along the way.
Reducing waste in the kitchen is simple and doesn't need to cost you anything. In fact, you'll actually end up saving money! Read on for tips to get you started on your waste reduction journey. Reducing your waste can seem like an overwhelming task. The trick is to take it slow and build one sustainable habit at a time.
Reduce, reuse, recycle. The three R's are the cornerstone of reducing waste in your kitchen (or any other part of your life for that matter!) Start by seeing how you can reduce your waste. Next, see what you can reuse instead of throwing out. And, lastly, if there is still waste in your kitchen, try to dispose of it in a responsible way.
Meal planning is an excellent first step to reduce kitchen waste. How many times have had to throw out fresh produce just because you didn't use it in time? Plan out your meals for a week (or even just a few days) at a time. Only buy the ingredients you need and plan to use.
Even the best-laid plans can go awry. Children get sick, you run out of energy, or you get a last-minute invitation. Life happens! Even if you've meal planned perfectly, you could still end up with produce in your fridge that doesn't get used. Here's the trick: you've got to be proactive about it. As soon as you see that produce hasn't been used, either work it into another meal or get to work preserving it. Freezing, canning, and juicing are all great ways to preserve food that would otherwise go to waste.
Making your own compost is a rewarding way to recycle your own waste. It can be as simple as putting vegetable trimmings and garden clippings in a pile outside and turning them every now and again. If you get really into it, you can start a compost bin or even a worm farm.
Where possible try to switch from single-use paper and plastic products. This can seem like a big sacrifice but just start by making a few manageable and simple changes. How about cutting down on paper towels and finding ways you reuse takeout containers? (Hint: they make great drawer organizers and seedling trays, and they're perfect for sending leftovers home with your guests.)
