Estate Living Digital Publication Issue 5 May 2015 | Page 54

“
bamboo tree is not killed when it is harvested.
The plant has multiple stems and only the
mature ones are harvested, leaving the plant
alive to grow further stems. A bamboo plant
absorbs more CO2 during its growth than is
released during the manufacturing process of
bamboo boards and flooring. This means that
bamboo products actually have a positive net
carbon footprint.

DESIGN & DECOR

52

Choose an eco-friendly top to complement your
work area. Engineered stone is a composite of
stone fragments and resin and is considered
a recycled material. If you wish to stick with a
laminated top, look for a ‘hollow core’ top. This is
a top that has a hollow core that is strengthened
with a recycled paper product and is light
weight and durable, using far less raw material
to manufacture. Once again, bamboo is a good
option, as it can be used to manufacture tops too.
Green appliances – appliances are the largest
consumersofelectricityandwater inyour kitchen
and all appliances are given an energy rating
based on their energy and water consumption.
A good trick to save electricity on your hob is to
match the pan to the element size – which could
stop you loosing over 40% of the heat generated
by the element. New cooking technology like
the induction hob, for example, which creates
a magnetic field between the hob and pan, are,
therefore, faster and more fuel efficient than
other options. A convection oven is usually more
energy saving than a conventional one, as the fan
reduces the temperature required and the total
cooking time by about 20%.

If you are
looking for a
paint finish or
‘duco’door, ensure
the paint used is
water based and
environmentally
friendly

“

A dishwasher is essential for the busy, on the go
family. Look out for water-efficient models that
offer a no-heat drying cycle. Interestingly, side
by side fridges/freezers use more energy than
similar-sized models with the freezer on top. Ice
makers and through the door bars also add to the
unit’s energy consumption. You should always
check your fridge’s door seals, as, if they are not
sealing properly, you will lose cold air, which will
mean the unit’s compressor will have to work
overtime to maintain the temperature inside.
In general, front loading washing machines use
less energy and water than top loading ones,
although some new top loaders have a facility to
spray the clothes from above and these are more
energy conscious than the older designs.
Finally, adopting a green living philosophy is very
important. Looking after the kitchen to ensure
its longevity is vital. Recycle materials and waste,
turn off appliances at the wall and switch off your
kitchen lights when you are not in the kitchen.
Being green might cost a little more in the
beginning and demand a little more effort in your
day to day routine, but, in the long run, it will save
you time and money and will leave everyone
with a healthier planet.
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