With homeowners being more aware of their carbon footprint and sustainability, eco-friendly kitchens are now trending. The materials you use and the fixtures you install can significantly reduce your water and electricity usage while reducing pollution. Follow the tips below for a green kitchen design that will save you money and benefit the planet.

How to Design an Eco-Friendly Kitchen

1. Choose Long-Lasting Materials

Invest in high-quality materials that will last a long time, and pair them with a timeless kitchen design so you’ll still love the space five, 10, or 20 years in the future. You’ll use resources to manufacture replacement parts each time you redo your kitchen, so your space’s overall carbon footprint will be significantly reduced if you invest in durable materials now. 

2. Choose ENERGY STAR® Appliances

The U.S. Department of Energy has a rating system for major home appliances. If the appliance meets or exceeds its guidelines for energy efficiency, it will earn the ENERGY STAR® rating. Look for the star symbol when shopping. Certain types of appliances tend to be more efficient as well, such as convection ovens and refrigerators with the freezer on the top or bottom.

3. Use No-VOC Finishes

VOC, or volatile organic chemicals, can be released by some finishes. This off-gassing pollutes the air, both inside the home and outside in the environment. Use finishes, such as sealants and paints, that are labeled non-VOC.

4. Use Bamboo

Many homeowners are skipping hardwood and replacing it with eco-friendly options like bamboo. This material looks and functions much like wood does, but it grows quicker than trees do. This means harvesting it has less of an environmental impact. Use bamboo for flooring, backsplashes, and cutting boards.

5. Choose WaterSense® Fixtures

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency gives out WaterSense® awards. Plumbing fixtures that have earned this label meet certain criteria for reducing water usage. Look for the label when shopping; it features a blue and green water drop.

Arrow Kitchens & Baths designs and builds eco-friendly kitchens in Webster, NY. This family-run business has been a leader in top-of-the-line kitchen design services for over 50 years. They will handle every aspect of your project, including electrical and plumbing. Learn more by visiting their website, and call (585) 670-9910 to schedule a consultation in Monroe County.