green living
approved silicone mats. Tey are easy to clean, affordable and available in many sizes and shapes. Run the dishwasher when full and at
Healthy House
Easy Ways to Green It Up
by Avery Mack L
iving green isn’t difficult or expensive. Start small, one room at a time.
In the Kitchen Defrosting trays have been available for a while, and although they aren’t a miracle solution, they are eco- friendly and easy to clean; thawing most meats, seafood and vegetables usually takes just 30 to 60 minutes. It’s one way to avoid using the microwave. Most cutting boards of sustainable
bamboo or cork originate in China, creat- ing a big carbon footprint. Glass boards are breakable and hard on knives. Consider planet-friendly boards made of recycled cardboard and food-grade plastic com- bined with flax husks.
night. Off-peak hours won’t cut the electric bill, but are more efficient for the power plant, reducing its energy footprint. Skip the garbage disposal to save water
and energy. Use food waste for plant-nurtur- ing compost. Plastics numbered 1, 3, 6 or 7 are prone to leaching into food or drinks. Re- cycle or repurpose those already on hand to store craſt items, small toys or office supplies.
On the Floor Keep floors clean and healthy by leaving shoes at the door. Tey track in dirt, pesti- cides, chemicals, pet waste and leaked fluids from vehicles. Slippers or socks with a grip sole keep feet warm and prevent falls. Bamboo flooring is sustainable and
A countertop convection oven set
about 25 degrees lower circulates heated air to cook food 25 to 30 percent faster and more evenly than a conventional oven; it uses less energy and has fewer emissions. Foods come out crispier, which also makes for great veggie chips. A conventional oven is still best for soufflés, breads or cakes that rise as they bake. Replace chemical-coated nonstick
pans, disposable parchment paper and aluminum foil with reusable, eco-friendly, U.S. Food and Drug Administration-
eco-friendly, but is also shipped from China. Using local products reduces ship- ping costs, supports American businesses and can give the home a unique design. “Logs salvaged from the bottom of the Penobscot River turn into flooring, ceilings and accent walls,” advises Tom Shafer, co- owner of Maine Heritage Timber, in Mil- linocket. “Te cold temperature preserves the wood and gives it a natural patina. It’s now available in peel-and-stick, affordable planks called timberchic. Planks have an eco-friendly, UV-cured finish.” For more flooring tips, see Tinyurl.
com/Eco-FriendlyFloors.
In the Bathroom Instead of air freshener sprays, hang pet- and child-safe plants.
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