Six ways to move towards a zero-waste home kitchen
Douglas McMaster, the owner of Silo, the world’s first zero-waste restaurant in London, is passionate about reducing waste in all aspects of life. However, he understands the challenges that come with trying to achieve zero waste in a home kitchen. Here are his top tips to help you get started.
Cut the clingfilm
Instead of using plastic clingfilm, opt for reusable plastic containers with lids. There are a variety of sizes available, some of which can even be vacuumed to create an airtight seal. You can also use damp cloths or plates on top of bowls as alternatives to plastic wrap.
Save your citrus peel
Citrus peels can be roasted with sugar until caramelized, blended with water, and frozen into blocks to create delicious flavor enhancers for yogurt or ice cream.
Kimchi veg scraps
Transform vegetable trimmings, such as cauliflower leaves, leek tops, and beetroot peels, into kimchi by combining them with apple, garlic, ginger, spices, and cabbage. Give it time to ferment and you’ll have a delicious and sustainable dish.
Buy loose leaf tea
Opt for loose leaf tea over tea bags, as biodegradable bags still create waste. Loose leaf tea is a simple way to reduce household waste, as long as you have a compost bin for disposal.
Buy in bulk
Consider purchasing dried foods in bulk from websites like Zero Waste Bulk Foods, which offers a wide variety of products and delivers them to your doorstep. Their reusable bags can be returned for reuse, making it easy to minimize packaging waste with just a few Kilner jars for storage.
By implementing these tips and making small changes in your kitchen habits, you can take significant steps towards achieving a zero-waste home kitchen.
