Green Kitchens

If all the green that’s emerging outside is making you anxious to move some green inside, listen up. Transforming your house into an eco-friendly and sustainable space doesn’t have to be as sudden or dramatic as you might think. Little changes made slowly throughout the years can really add up, and before you know it you’ll probably be the greenest house on the block (even if your exteriors are still white)! If you support the idea behind some of the more extreme measures like solar panels, but aren’t ready for such a drastic undertaking, don’t worry. It’s easier than ever to make significant changes to your home’s sustainability without significantly changing your lifestyle. One of the easiest places to start? The kitchen. Here are a few ideas to get you on your way: LightingEnergy efficient fluorescent lights have been around for a long time, but it wasn’t until fairly recently that developers really started to get it right. Sterile, unflattering fluorescent lighting with no variety in wattage and luminescence is a thing of the past. Not only does compact fluorescent lighting look great, it also saves you money and lasts on average eight times longer than a normal bulb. But, if fluorescent lighting really isn’t your thing, designing or remodeling a kitchen so that it gets a lot of natural light is another great way to save money on energy bills. AppliancesIt seems like Energy Star appliances are everywhere now, and for good reason. Dishwashers, ovens, microwaves, refrigerators–you name it, they’ve got it. True, energy efficient appliances cost more up front, but they more than make up for the price difference in the long run. And don’t forget the added tax incentives as well. We all know the story, so what’s been keeping you from upgrading to new appliances?ProductsThink a spatula can’t contribute to the green movement? Think again. Kitchen products made from sustainable materials like recycled plastic and glass are so widely available it’s almost difficult not to buy them. Even the littlest change in lifestyle can make a big difference, so give that eco-friendly bowl the credit it’s due and give it a few more friends too!