1. Tiered Tray
Find new purpose for mismatched dinnerware
sets in the form of a tiered serving tray for hors d'oeuvres or
desserts, or use as a catch-all for jewelry, keys, and other small
knickknacks. 1. Gather three plates and two cups. 2. Alternating between
plates of descending size, using teacups as spacers between the tiers,
glue the dishes together with a strong epoxy. To avoid using excess
glue, apply only to the rim and bottom of the cup, rather than the
plate. 3. Allow the glue to dry overnight, then hand wash before using.
2. Glass Food Containers
When heated, plastic containers can break down
and leach chemicals into food. Reusable, durable lidded glass ones,
like Ikea's 365+ line, are safer for your family and the planet. Use
them to store leftovers or dry goods like pasta and beans. ikea.com.
3. Microfiber Cleaning Cloths
For everyday cleaning, paper towels are expensive, create unnecessary
waste, and tear easily. Instead, stock up on Method's microfiber
cleaning cloths. They're washable, reusable, and better at trapping dirt
and spills.
4. Recycled Paper Notebook
Don't toss paper that's only been printed on
one side into the recycling bin. Bind the sheets together for a quick,
handy notebook. 1. Cut the paper into uniformly sized rectangles. 2.
Stack the pieces blank-side up and punch two to three holes along one
edge. 3. Grab an old shoe box and cut two pieces of cardboard the same
size as the paper. 4. Punch holes along one edge, keeping them aligned
with the paper holes. 5. Sandwich paper between the covers and "bind"
the book using key rings. 6. Cover the cardboard with old carpet samples
or colorful contact paper.
5. Natural Aromatherapy
Caught a cold? Try hanging a bundle of
eucalyptus (sold at craft stores and flower shops) from your shower
curtain rod. "The heat and steam help to activate the herb's essential
oils, which can ease congestion," Seo explains. Hang a bundle with
natural garden twine (more moisture-resistant than cotton twine) on the
shower rod, away from the spray of the water. Enjoy the scent for a few
weeks as you take a hot shower.
6. T-Shirt Pillows
Perk up your couch or love seat with throw pillows fashioned out of
vintage Ts. "If you don't sew --and I don't -- you can take the cut
pieces to a dry cleaner or tailor and have them make the basic stitches
for you," suggests Seo. 1. Cut two identical squares of fabric from old
T-shirts (one from the front and one from the back). 2. Lay the squares
on top of one another, exterior sides facing in. Sew the pieces together
along three edges, leaving one edge unsewn. 3. Turn the newly created
"pillowcase" inside out and stuff with pillow filling (available at
fabric stores, or from an old pillow you don't use). 4. Sew the fourth
edge of the square shut.
7. Carpet Coasters
Replacing carpet creates an enormous amount of waste. If you have to install new
carpet, save leftover bits from both the old and new rugs to turn into
fuzzy coasters to protect your furniture from errant drips. (They make
great housewarming gifts, too.) 1. Cut out squares of carpet, trimming
the fray. 2. If the coasters get stained, wash in the sink like dishes
and let them air-dry.
8. PVC-Free Shower Curtain
Most shower curtains are made from vinyl, or PVC, a plastic that can
release hormone-disrupting phthalates and other harmful pollutants into
the air. JCPenney's PVC-free Carlisle shower curtain is made of
polyester -- a synthetic material, yes, but long-lasting and
phthalate-free. (When it finally does need to be replaced, use it as a
drop cloth for your kids' art projects or collecting leaves in the
fall.)
9. Induction Cooker
Induction Hobs are the latest in eco-friendly cooking technology
offering the control of gas combined with the convenience and style of
the ceramic hob whilst at the same time being significantly more energy
efficient than both. Induction hobs are also much safer to because they
use magnetic fields rather than heat transfer. This means that the
surface of the induction hob itself, even when delivering maximum
power, does not get hot enough to burn. As a result induction hobs are
particularly safe for the elderly or those with younger families.
10.Thermo Flask (Pensonic)
- Eco-Friendly Choice
- Save More Than 88% Energy
- Hot Beverages In Seconds
- Classic Yet Stylish Design
Green Your Kitchen Space
1. Natural Silver Polish
A frequently recommended, nontoxic trick is to
fill an aluminum pan (or one lined with aluminum foil) with hot water,
add salt and baking soda, and stir to dissolve. When you add the silver
pieces, a chemical reaction occurs, removing tarnish.
2. Try Reusable Towels
Paper towels cause waste -- even if you stick
to the recycled brands. Microfiber towels grip dirt and dust like a
magnet and don't let go. After use, toss the towels into the laundry and
reuse over and over.
3. Mind the Microwave
There are a few simple guidelines to follow to make microwave use safer, including avoiding certain plastics when reheating. Use the microwave infrequently, if at all. Cook and reheat foods on a conventional stove or in the oven.Microwave ovens do leak radiation, but at very low levels that the FDA and most scientists believe are harmless.4. Health Cookware (must read carefully)
Rumors about plastic's detrimental impact on our health have circulated for decades. Though the FDA, CDC, and other official agencies issue periodic reassurances, other experts believe that this miracle of modern alchemy may be lacing our food with chemicals. But you don't have to forgo all your wraps and containers just yet. By learning the ground rules for different types of plastic, you can strike a reasonable balance between convenience and caution.The FDA keeps close tabs on anything designed for contact with foods -- and it stands by the safety of approved plastic containers, saying they leach negligible amounts of chemicals when used for their express purposes. But what about that yogurt container you used for leftovers and then popped into the microwave for reheating? Since federal standards only address how plastic performs during its "intended use," those of us trying to do the green thing by reusing plastics could be gambling with our health.
Stepping outside the bounds of intended use, we risk heightened exposure to preservatives and other additives. While studies are mixed as to how much of these chemicals we can tolerate, research does confirm at least three things: First, certain types of plastic contain dangerous compounds, including carcinogens and hormone imitators, substances that the body can mistake for estrogen; second, overheating or overusing plastic food containers may cause some of these compounds to "migrate" into food; and third, heat from microwaving or dishwashing and high levels of fat in foods like meat and cheese can expedite this migration.
In the case of polycarbonate, polystyrene, and polyvinyl chloride (plastics often used to make certain cling wrap, takeout, and durable food storage containers), even low-level migration of their chemicals may damage hormone and gene function over time. Studies have yet to prove that concentrations found in food pose a threat to humans, but the basic building blocks of these plastics include known human carcinogens and substances harmful to the reproductive system. Other plastics, such as polyethelenes (used to make some cling wraps and containers as well as zippered bags), contain fewer additives and less toxic ingredients. Optimal safety requires that you abide by manufacturer instructions and, in some cases, take a few additional precautions to minimize your exposure. With a little food-storage know-how, you can easily spot the best -- and the safest-plastic for the job.
Disposable polypropylene (PP, #5)This plastic has a relatively high melting point, so it's usually safe for warm or cold foods. While many of these containers pass microwave-safety tests, they rarely undergo tests for prolonged use and may break down faster than durables. To limit risk of exposure to the preservative BHT, reuse these containers only as long as recommended by the manufacturer. If you can't find recommendations on the product packaging or on the company's Web site, use them no more than five or six times.
Dairy Tubhigh-density polyethylene (HDPE, #2) or polypropylene (PP, #5)Designed to store food at cold temperatures for a limited time, these containers will likely melt if subjected to heat, increasing your risk of exposure to chemical additives -- so reuse them for cold foods only. Be sure to recycle them when you see signs of wear, such as discoloration, warping, or scratches.
Produce Baghigh-density polyethylene (HDPE, #2) or low-density polyethylene (LDPE, #4)While both types of polyethylene may contain chemical antioxidants to prevent discoloration, they do not appear to cause health problems and are free of plasticizers -- chemicals often added to plastic for flexibility that some animal studies have linked to hormone dysfunction. To minimize exposure to preservatives, avoid using these bags with high-fat foods, which absorb additives more readily.
Cling Wrappolyvinyl chloride (PVC or V, #3) or low-density polyethylene (LDPE, #4)Choose wraps made from LDPE, such as those from Glad or Saran, since PVC contains the known carcinogen vinyl chloride. If you can't find "LDPE" or "#4" (in the chasing-arrows symbol on the box), don't buy it until you've checked with the company online or over the phone. If you buy plastic-wrapped meat or cheese, trim areas exposed to wrapping (since it's often PVC) and store the remainder in glass or ceramic. For freezing, try tempered glass; parchment paper works for shorter periods. In the microwave, use ceramic or glass covers; wraps can melt and release chemicals upon contact with hot foods and liquids.
Durablelow-density polyethylene (LDPE, #4), polypropylene (PP, #5), or polycarbonate (PC, #7)Choose containers marked with #4 or #5; #7 PC can leach low levels of an estrogen imitator. Note that #7 is a catch-all "other" category that includes combinations of safer types, but because you can't discern between these and the #7s made with PC, avoid the category entirely. Many durables are microwave- and dishwasher-safe, but always check labels. Avoid using them to heat sugary foods, like syrup or sweetened tomato sauce, which reach very high temperatures and are more likely to melt plastic.
Takeoutpolypropylene (PP, #5) or polystyrene (PS, #6)Polypropylene doesn't appear to leach chemicals, but since few takeout containers undergo testing to ensure safety beyond one-time usage, don't keep them for storage. Polystyrene, most recognizable as Styrofoam, can also assume a hard, clear form. Both forms are made with benzene and could leach styrene, a possible human carcinogen and hormone disrupter; they also can't be recycled in most communities. If you have food delivered in any of these plastics, store leftovers in another container. Also, don't reheat your food in them -- even if your takeout shows up cold -- unless you see a "microwave safe" label on the bottom.
Zippered Bagshigh-density polyethylene (HDPE, #2) or low-density polyethylene (LDPE, #4)These plastics have not been found to leach harmful chemicals, but save them for cold, low-fat foods. Both types of plastic melt fairly easily in this form, and fatty foods are more likely to absorb antioxidant preservatives.
Go GreenFrom manufacture to disposal, plastics pollute air and water, consume massive amounts of fossil fuels, and take up landfill space. Here's how to reduce your impact.
1. Know your numbers. The number and chasing-arrows symbol on plastic containers indicates type of plastic -- not whether it can be recycled.
2. Pack your bags. The 100 billion plastic bags that Malaysian use every year require more than 21,000 barrels of oil daily to produce. Plastic recycling is expensive and energy intensive, so keep a stash of cloth or once-used grocery bags on hand to carry purchases.
Here is a simple way to make grocery bags sturdy enough for long term use:
Collapse the bottom of the paper bag.
Slide the paper bag into a plastic bag. Cut off the top portion of the paper bag in a gentle arc to create a wider opening for easier use.
Fit the bottom corners of the paper bag into the plastic bag to create a secure and sturdy foundation.
For easy packing and travel, simply fold your homemade bags up, tucking in the plastic and handles, and fold the bags in half. Multiple bags held together with rubber bands will fit neatly into the compartment in your car door or in your trunk.
3. BYORB. Bring your own reusable bottle. When you do purchase a drink on the go, choose glass over plastic since it recycles more efficiently.
4. Skip the packaging. When you buy produce, think twice before grabbing a bag. Oranges, onions, and many other items don't need the extra protection. For prepackaged goods, buy in bulk to minimize waste.
5. Get involved. The Center for Health, Environment, and Justice recently launched a campaign to encourage companies to phase out PVC use in favor of less harmful materials.
By Josie Garthwaite
5. Green Dishwashing Liquid
For greasy pots and pans: Try scouring with salt. For burned saucepans: Fill the pan half full with water, spoon in baking soda, let it soak overnight, and bring to a boil.6. Use Glass Containers
Heated plastic containers can break down and
leach chemicals into food. Reusable glass ones with lids are safer for
you and the planet. Use them to store leftovers or dry goods such as
beans and rice.
7. Use Foil Sparingly
Use aluminum foil sparingly -- and reuse it
before you recycle it. Stop wrapping leftovers in foil; store them in
glass containers instead. The manufacture of new foil is energy
intensive -- another reason to ration. Buy recycled foil, which is
produced using 95 percent less energy.
8. Fill Up the Freezer
Fill up your freezer, since the fuller it is, the less energy it uses to keep food frozen.
9. No-Cook Dishes
Give the oven (and the planet) a breather by making delicious no-cook meals.
Note : Go to page "Green Recipe" for more info.
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