It’s hard these days to buy a kitchen appliance that doesn’t boast about its A+ Rated energy efficiency and how it’s kind to the planet. Consumers are increasingly aware of the impact their actions may have on the planet… and also on their pockets!

Many of these tips will be common sense but some of them will hopefully encourage a more economic, greener way of life.

1. Invest in some quality pots and pans… although more expensive in the short term, higher quality pots and pans will retain the heat much better enabling you to cook for longer with the residual heat they can provide.

2. Induction hobs… again, a bit more pricey that gas hobs but this new technology is a lot more efficient than gas hobs and safer than standard electric hobs as the hob itself doesn’t get so hot.

3. Re use your shopping bags! Get a good quality shopping bag to take to the supermarket.. many retailers will reward you for it!

4. Hemp textiles..A green alternative to Cotton… next time you need a new apron consider one made from hemp.

5. Avoid kitchen gadgets if you can!.. Maybe there’s something a bit more rewarding about mixing that cake mix yourself?!

6. Buy locally and seasonally… This will often result in fresher produce and it may well be a cheaper way to buy!

7. Get a solar oven!.. Obviously going to be more useful in sunny locations but these ovens do work brilliantly and its completely free!

8. Bacon.. Cook it in the microwave. In fact it is more efficient to cook most things in the microwave.

9. Avoid keeping fridge and freezer doors open for too long.. they consume a lot of energy getting back down to temperature.

10 …And if you have a non frost free freezer keep it defrosted regularly!

11. Filter your water… It’s a lot cheaper and better on the environment compared to buying bottled water all the time.

12. Reduce food waste… Cook only for however many people are eating…  if you make more, freeze the left overs.

13. Re use containers… Glass Jars and food cartons can be reused to store other foods/ mixes etc..

14. Don’t run your fridge too cold.. the optimum temperature is about 4-5C.

15. Grow your own. The ultimate eco warrior will be doing this… It’s free, there’s no wasted trips to the supermarket, no wasted packaging materials.. perfect! Get out there and grow something!

16. Compost all your waste. A compost bin is great especially if you are following the above tip!

17. If you are going to use toxic substances for cleaning.. make sure you dispose of them separately as they should not be land filled.

18. Use LED or Compact Fluorescent light bulbs.

19. Be prepared and defrost items in the fridge rather than Microwaving them.

20. Tiered steamers are an excellent healthy way to cook and require very little energy.

If you have any more tips please add a comment and I’ll add them to the article!