There are many ways to save energy in the kitchen. Jill Cordes shows you how. (Courtesy: Brighter Living)



For some, cooking is a relaxing escape. For others, it’s a hectic scramble to feed hungry mouths. Either way, it can use a lot of energy and water, plus leftover food and packaging that could go to waste. So here are some simple ways to green up your kitchen. The first place to start is by recycling aluminum cans, glass bottles, paper, cardboard, steel cans, and plastic bottles. Reuse cooking water for house or garden plants. Also, when it’s time to upgrade, look for Energy Star rated appliances, which are more efficient and can save you money on energy bills. Stainless steel pots and pans and iron skillets are designed to last for years, but when you're ready to get a new set, your old set can actually be recycled as scrap metal, or consider donating them to a local charity. Eat on plates that you can wash and reuse rather than using disposable ones. And like the other rooms in your house, switch to CFL light bulbs. They’re more efficient, last longer, less expensive in the long run, and will help keep the heat down in your kitchen. I’m Jill Cordes.