In today's world, it's not enough to just focus on the ingredients we use; we also need to consider how our kitchen environment and cooking tools impact both our health and the planet. Many small habits often go unnoticed, yet they can have a significant effect on sustainability and well-being.
1. **Use an electric kettle instead of a gas stove for boiling water**
Electric kettles are more energy-efficient, especially when you cover the lid while heating. This simple step helps water reach boiling point faster, saving both time and energy.
2. **Adopt energy-saving cooking techniques**
Soaking rice for 10 minutes before cooking in a rice cooker can reduce cooking time by about 10%. On a national scale, if 180 million households adopt this method, it could save 800 million kWh annually and cut COâ‚‚ emissions by 780,000 tons.
3. **Avoid using plastic containers for food or drinks**
Plastic containers, especially when heated, can release harmful chemicals like phthalates. These substances act as endocrine disruptors and may affect hormonal balance. It’s best to store leftovers in glass or stainless steel containers and avoid plastic wraps or foam containers.
4. **Minimize range hood idling**
Turn off your range hood when not in use. If each household reduces idling by 10 minutes daily, it can save around 12.2 kWh per year and cut COâ‚‚ emissions by 11.7 kg.
5. **Avoid non-stick cookware and packaging**
Non-stick coatings often contain perfluorinated compounds, which can be toxic and accumulate in the body over time. Opt for uncoated stainless steel or glass cookware instead. Also, avoid microwave popcorn bags that have non-oil-leakage treatments, as they release harmful chemicals when heated.
6. **Choose energy-saving rice cookers**
Energy-saving rice cookers use about 20% less power than traditional models. If 10% of urban households switch to these, the annual savings could reach 90 million kWh and significantly reduce carbon emissions.
7. **Reuse wastewater from washing vegetables and dishes**
Collecting wastewater in a large basin allows you to reuse it for watering plants or flushing the toilet. This small practice contributes to water conservation.
8. **Limit the use of polystyrene (PS)**
Polystyrene is found in many everyday items, such as disposable cups and toys. It contains styrene, a substance linked to reproductive toxicity. Even though PS can be recycled, the recycling rate is very low.
9. **Prevent food pests naturally**
Use white vinegar mixed with a few drops of lemongrass or tea tree oil to clean storage areas. Place bay leaves in cabinets to keep pests away. Store food in sealed glass, metal, or plastic containers, and consider refrigerating grains for a week to prevent infestations.
By making small, conscious choices in the kitchen, we can contribute to a healthier lifestyle and a more sustainable future.
**Reference source: Greenpeace**
**Image source: Network**
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