August 25, 2021
Sustainability and protecting our planet should be of utmost importance to every member of the global community, and it probably won’t surprise you that your kitchen is one of the top places that can make an impact if you go green.
There are many techniques to creating a sustainable kitchen, and the best way to become more environmentally friendly in your kitchen is to start from scratch when designing a bespoke kitchen. Here are some ideas for planning your eco-friendly kitchen:
Choose sustainable appliances
The energy used by the various kitchen appliances can be significant, so opting for the most eco-friendly appliances is the best place to start. Some of our recommendations for environmentally friendly appliances include:
- Replace your kettle with a Quooker tap. How many times does your family boil the kettle each day? And are you ever guilty of the shame-inducing double boil? Reduce heating costs considerably by investing in a Quooker tap – one of the most energy efficient appliances you could have in your household. The tap is awarded energy label A, the highest rating. It features a tank with a thermos flask that helps conserve heat – and energy!
- Research the appliance brand(s) you are investing in. We work with high end brands that focus on sustainability like Bosch, Miele, Neff, Westin and Elica. Choosing high quality appliances that offer additional eco-friendly features will make a big impact.
- Install an induction hob. Induction hobs are powered by electricity, which can be created by using renewable energy sources. This means they are more energy efficient than gas hobs, which use natural gas that contributes to global warming. Induction hobs also cook more quickly and don’t generate any excess heat- the heat is all used for the cooking process which simply heats up the pan.
Consider your kitchen’s ventilation
Having good air ventilation in your kitchen is crucial for reducing the amount of toxins and carbon monoxide that are released by appliances into both your home and the air outside. Ensure you have a quality extractor hood in place and that it is well-positioned and easy to maintain.
Choose eco-friendly, plastic-free materials and tools
It’s widely known that plastic is horrible for the environment, yet there are still so many inexpensive plastic bits that are commonplace in home kitchens. Rather than skimping on cheap plastic parts, go for high quality materials that will stand the test of time and look 100 times better.
- Wooden draws and furniture are better for the environment. Also, choosing wood for chopping boards, salad bowls and utensils will not only give your kitchen a natural feel, it will benefit nature.
- Glass is the most recyclable, resource-efficient material. Plus, it is stylish and adds extra light within your home.
- Incorporate stainless steel. Stainless steel has environmentally friendly properties and is highly durable, meaning it will last and not require replacing like other surfaces or accessories.
Install energy efficient lighting
Pay attention to the type of lighting you use in your kitchen as well as how often the lights are switched on. Choose LEDs or CFL lighting which are long-lasting and consume less energy than incandescent bulbs.
Also, work with an experienced kitchen designer who can advise on the best placement for the most efficient lighting. There are automations that can reduce the amount of time the lights are on and dimmers can reduce the energy output. The placement of layered lighting within open plan spaces is also very important for not only energy efficiency but also the atmosphere and flow of your kitchen.
Ready to get started transitioning to an eco-friendly kitchen? Contact our kitchen design team to discuss your project.
