Green Kitchen

2011 Green Kitchen trends will continue to take off in 2011. This is true for materials and appliances used in the kitchen, but also for cooking practices and techniques. We touched on the kitchen décor trend of using more natural and sustainable kitchen materials in 2011. But the green kitchen trend is also about using energy-efficient appliances, and minimizing overall energy usage and waste in the kitchen itself.
It’s been calculated that more energy is used in the kitchen than in any other room of the house. This great amount of energy use is mainly attributed to refrigerators and ovens, but inefficient dishwashers, toasters, blenders, coffeemakers and microwaves all contribute as well. If you have the means in your 2011 kitchen budget, consider purchasing new kitchen appliances with high energy-star ratings and re-selling or repurposing your old appliances.
According to the Energy Star website, their fridges are required to use 20% less energy than non-energy star models. You can also buy energy star-certified dishwashers, freezers and more, at major kitchen appliance retailers.
In addition to selecting energy-efficient kitchen appliances in 2011, many homeowners will be making a greater effort to reduce and reuse (we hope you’re already recycling!). Kitchen composting systems will become more common and desirable. It’s estimated that most families waste about 25% of food purchased, or throw away $590-$600 worth of food every year. By cutting out impulsive food purchases and introducing a home composting system to your kitchen, your family can save money and minimize waste in 2011.
Low-flow kitchen faucets are another way of conserving in your 2011 kitchen. Faucets from Toto, Kohler, Grohe and American Standard are estimated to conserve water consumption by as much as 30%. Low-flow faucets and spigots are also now available in many attractive styles and materials, like polished chrome, bronze and nickel—so your 2011 eco-friendly kitchen can conserve while still exuding class.