Thinking of remodelling your kitchen? On top of considering practical improvements, it could be a good time to consider ways of making your kitchen more environmentally friendly. Below are a few remodelling tips for those that want to create a more eco-friendly kitchen.
Install LED lighting
If your kitchen still uses incandescent lighting, now could be a good time to switch to LED lighting. LED bulbs may be more expensive to buy upfront, but they can be a much better investment in the long run – they consume less energy and last a lot longer than regular bulbs. Lighting is one of the biggest sources of energy consumption in our homes and this small improvement can make a big difference.
Embrace natural light
You may be able to reduce the amount of artificial light required in your kitchen by increasing the amount of natural light flowing in. An empty external wall in your kitchen could be a great place for adding an extra window to let in more light. If you don’t have any walls that you’re willing to sacrifice, consider whether it’s possible to install a window in the ceiling. Such windows are known as skylights and can help to illuminate the kitchen from above during the day without the need to turn on any bulbs.
Opt for energy-efficient appliances
Ovens, refrigerators, dishwashers and other kitchen appliances can all consume a lot of energy. Choosing energy efficient appliances will not only reduce your energy bills, but also reduce your carbon footprint if you rely on mains electricity. A lot of modern appliances are a lot more energy-efficient than older appliances – if you have appliances that are older than 10 years, consider whether it may be time to replace them.
Reduce unnecessary plastic
Consider making your kitchen as plastic-free as possible. When it comes to tools like spatulas, chopping boards and shakers, choose wooden or metal options that are easier to recycle. You should also consider whether synthetic countertops are a good choice. Some of these countertops are not easy to recycle and release toxic VOCs into the air. Wooden and stone countertops are a more eco-friendly option.
Consider restoring rather than replacing
Another way to keep your kitchen renovation green is to work with what you already have. The likes of old wooden cabinets can be easily restored by sanding them down and refinishing them. If you want to give your kitchen a fresh new look, consider simply painting them a new color.
Make sure your kitchen is built to last
Ideally, you don’t want to be having to renovate your kitchen again in 10 years because you no longer like the style of it or because certain fixtures are already worn and damaged. Make sure to choose a design that is timeless and that you truly love. Using professional kitchen design software, you can get an accurate idea of what your new kitchen will look like so that you can be certain that it’s right for you. Try to choose materials and appliances that are durable as well as eco-friendly, as this will also reduce the need for more future renovations.
Recycle your old kitchen fixtures/appliances
If you decide to get rid of any fixtures of appliances, make sure that you dispose of them in an eco-friendly way. Consider taking them to your local recycling centre or finding another way to recycle them.
