Plastic Free Tips: The Kitchen
Welcome to Take 3’s Plastic Free Tips! This series will teach you how you can transition to a more plastic free lifestyle with a few simple substitutes.
A standard household kitchen tends to be a ‘hotspot’ where plastic products can accumulate. Take 3 recognises the unique value of plastic as a material, but also how significantly it can be overused in our daily life.
What does a low-waste kitchen look like? Here are some tips on how to avoid and minimise plastic and waste in your kitchen:
- Compost what you can
Food scraps that end up in landfill release carbon and methane into the atmosphere. Composting is an easy way to turn food waste into healthy, nutrient-rich soil that you can use on your garden, and avoids using plastic bin liners for your food waste. - Use glass storage containers
Plastic leaches its toxins rapidly when exposed to heat, and over time, this process can occur at any temperature. These toxins are then absorbed by the food, and by you! Make the switch to glass storage containers, which are suitable in the fridge, cupboard and freezer. - Switch to plastic free utensils
The next time you’re buying utensils, opt for metal or wooden utensils rather than plastic. These are not only better for the environment, but ensure no plastic toxins leach into your food. - Make your own cleaning products
Making your own cleaning products is easy, inexpensive, and reduces your plastic footprint at the same time. Don’t want to DIY? Many kitchen cleaners often come in bulk at selected stores, so you can refill containers that you already have. - Swap out plastic wrap
Beeswax wraps are an all natural, plastic free alternative to plastic wrap and can be reused over and over again. Even better, they are compostable when they reach the end of their life. - Use compostable cleaning utensils
Purchase dish brushes and scrubbers that only harm dirt, not the planet. Opt for wooden or bamboo alternatives with plant-fibre bristles. - Avoid takeout, cook at home
Avoid pre-made, packaged dinners and home delivery, as they come with a lot of excess plastic waste. Cooking at home can be a lot healthier for you and for the planet.
Stay tuned for more plastic free living tips next week!
