Posted by The kitchen can be a huge source of waste – and it’s more than just food waste. Clingfilm and tinfoil, ready meal packaging and tins, along with fat eager to join its fatberg family in the sewers: the kitchen can present a challenge for the zero-waste inclined.
However, it’s far from insurmountable. Beeswax wraps can provide an alternative to cling film – and you can make them yourself with a little care. Alternatively, recycle take away tubs or food packaging you’ve been unable to avoid.
Bulk stores and glass jars can cut plastic use – and save a fortune. Empty crisp packets can be washed, turned foil side out and filled with oats for feeding the ducks – I keep them in my coat pockets in case of random bird encounters (I’ve seen a duck on a pier: I’m taking no chances on missing out). I also use these bags for wildflower seeds, or putting flapjacks in, when going on nature walks.
A compost bin can get rid of most food waste – assuming you can’t turn leftovers into a meal or treat.
Careful shopping can help reduce waste further – use a shopping list and take your own containers as well as bags.
I’m a fan of the market and a wheely trolley when I don’t have to rely on online shopping (sadly, rarely, as I love market shopping but energy prevents it). I re-use market paper bags for gift wrap (after painting or otherwise trimming) if they can’t be avoided.
Then there’s cleaning. I am a big fan of home made cleaning products and will share some recipes tomorrow. There’s no need to spend a fortune on artificially scented cleaning products – and you may well have at least some of the ingredients already…
groweatgift 