Earth-friendly cooking

Our responsibility towards the environment could not be more important right now, as we discover further concerns regarding rising temperatures, natural disasters, air, sea and land pollution, to name a few. Sooner or later we have to recognise that we cannot ignore these matters or rely on others to fix them. Our planet, animals and future generations have a right to live without the excess pollution and environmental turmoil, but we can all help in preserving our planet. One of these ways is to be more conscious of earth-friendly cooking.

What is EARTH-friendly cooking?

It’s a way of cooking that promotes environmentally sound ways to cook natural, locally sourced foods while saving energy and reducing pollution.

How can we help?

There are several easy ways to reduce energy and fuel wastage in the kitchen that most of us can do:

  1. Use environmentally friendly cookware such as ceramic, cast iron and stainless steel pans.

  2. Conserve energy by cooking food with the lid on. This reduces cooking time and mess—which requires water to clean up.

  3. Buy local ingredients that don’t have to be transported long distances. Organic foods bought at local farmers markets are also healthier and contain less or no pesticides.

  4. Choose local and sustainable fish and meat. Eat less animal products and more plant-based meals—it’s better for your health and the environment.

  5. Enjoy outdoor barbeques when the weather allows. Use eco-friendly charcoal or wood instead of gas and electricity to cook food.

  6. Look for recycled disposable kitchen items, such as foil, paper towels and paper bags. Beeswax or soya wax food covers are a great alternative to plastic wrap.

  7. Batch cook foods and store in the fridge or freezer so you don’t have to cook everyday.

  8. Zero waste. Freeze excess food and plan meals ahead so you don’t waste fresh food. Spoiled food can also be used for compost.