8 Easy Eco Resolutions To Make At Home




Whether you're a fan of new year's resolutions or not, here are some simple steps for going green in the kitchen this year.

1. Frequent the farmers market.
And start now. It's cold? So what! Bundle up and get out
there to support the local farmers who are growing all kinds of
delicious winter produce and humanely raised meats. Plus, learning to make a meal with what's
available, not what's on some recipe list, will make you a better cook.
Year-round markets include the Dupont Circle FreshFarm Market and the Arlington Farmers Market. Find a market near you.

2. Recycle. Obvious, I know, but did you know in DC you can recycle plastic bags, aerosol cans,
wide-mouth plastic containers, plastics labeled #1-7 and aluminum foil? Here's a full list for DC.

3. Start composting. Thanks to Compost Cab,
there’s really no excuse. The service provides you with an odor-free,
rodent-proof bin for your food scraps, which are picked up once a week
and turned into rich compost. Have a garden? You'll get the nutrient-filled compost to
add to your soil in return for your efforts. Compost Cab is $8 per week.

4. Skip plastic bags. You
probably already have some reusable bags kicking around. I like canvas,
which is sturdy and machine washable. Extra credit for stocking up on
reusable produce bags, like these Chico Bags. (And when you do end up with plastic bags, see No. 2.)

5. Switch to eco-friendly dish soaps. I like Seventh Generation's line of Free & Clear products including the fragrance-free dish soap.

6. Use cloth napkins. I have
a linen obsession and keep lots of boldly printed cloth napkins on
hand. They're way more chic than paper. (And don’t make me beg you to banish plastic cups from parties, unless it’s a theme party and
the theme is frat party. Have class, use glass.)




7. Shop vintage or used for kitchen and barware items. As
much as I love to shop and highlight eco-friendly products, buying old
stuff is one of the greenest choices you can make. Check out Miss Pixie's for silver-plate bowls and glassware, The Hour for vintage barware, or a local flea market or Goodwill.

8. Reuse what you can. From jam jars to paper bags, think of creative ways to reuse items. Here are a few of my favorite reusables.