 EnviroCitizen.org knows that renovating a kitchen is no small matter. When remodeling, it is important to remember that the kitchen is one of the places in most homes that uses the most energy and resources. This includes the use of everything from your sink the refrigerator. The kitchen is the perfect place to use green materials that will make the interior of your home healthier while also improving the indoor air quality.
Air quality is important because you spend so much time in the kitchen. Use operable windows for cross ventilation/natural ventilation and HEPA filters in your vacuum. You may also want to buy a stylish ceiling fan to circulate hot and cool air, saving you money on energy bills and keeping you from getting too warm while cooking.
Choosing an eco-friendly counter and floor can be another way to help make your kitchen not only green, but healthy since many conventional materials off-gas harmful emissions. There are many beautiful options that are eco-friendly and are often cost-effective as well. Countertops, floors and millwork can be made from anything from recycled glass to bamboo or even paper. Contacting your local green building supply store will allow you to see all that’s available.
Cabinets are often made from wood harvested unsustainably and saturated with chemicals used for sealing, gluing and painting. Fortunately, there are some great, safe alternatives. First, save whatever parts of your existing cabinets that can still be used. For the new cabinet elements, you can use reclaimed wood or formaldehyde-free pressed fiberboard. Or you can even get cabinets made from compressed plant material (such as wheatboard) or sustainable wood with a third-party certification.
Lighting is another place can easily be improved. Try installing fixtures with dimmers and that are more efficient. Also, try making the switch to better lights, such as compact fluorescent lights. These usually use a fraction of the energy that regular bulbs use and last much longer. Each high-use bulb you replace will save up to ten dollars and 100 pounds of carbon dioxide emissions per year, and they last for many years.
You can greatly reduce your power and water usage as well as your greenhouse gas production by using Energy Star appliances. Energy Star appliances can save as much as 50 percent of your energy and water use, and can cut your carbon footprint by 1000+ pounds compared to standard appliances.
Hopefully, EnviroCitizen.org’s tips on renovating your kitchen help you achieve a safe, healthy, eco-friendly kitchen.
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