For a long time, people have stressed the importance of the three R’s: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. But how do we actually do this? How can we implement even one of these practices into our daily lives? Today, I will discuss how someone can reduce waste using just the items in their kitchen.
For starters, let’s talk about eggshells left behind when you make your morning scrambled eggs. These often-overlooked shells can actually be very useful. For people who own dogs, crushing up the eggshells and adding them to your dog’s food not only reduces waste but also serves as a natural source of calcium, which promotes bone and joint health. To do this, you simply need to boil the eggshells, dry them, and crush them into a fine powder. This is a cost-effective alternative to expensive supplements.
Eggshells can also help people who enjoy gardening. You can crush them and add them to soil for a calcium boost, which can prevent blossom-end rot. They can even be added to compost to improve calcium content and pH balance.
Another common item that often goes to waste is vegetable scraps. There are many ways to use them that often go unnoticed. You can freeze scraps in a plastic bag to use later, or make a delicious vegetable stock for soups. You can also add scraps directly to soups or stews for extra texture, flavor, and nutrients without buying new vegetables. Blending scraps into sauces is another option, and for those who enjoy tangy flavors, pickling them at home is a great choice. Some vegetables, like green onions, can even be regrown if the roots are left intact—just place them in water, and you’ll have a nearly endless supply.
Bones are another kitchen item that often goes to waste but have many uses. Like vegetables, bones can be used to make bone broth, which is both resourceful and delicious. They can also be turned into bonemeal or fertilizer for plants.
Fruit scraps, such as banana peels, kiwi skin, and apple peels, can also be repurposed. Boiling fruit scraps can make a warm, flavorful tea—perfect for colder days. If you enjoy baking or cooking, fruit scraps can be turned into jams and preserves to enjoy all year round. Imagine pumpkin jam in the spring or apricot preserves in the winter! Not only are you saving money, but you also get to enjoy homemade flavors with pride. Another easy option is to steep fruit scraps in water for a naturally fruity drink instead of buying flavored water.
By finding ways to reuse these everyday kitchen items, you can reduce waste, save money, and even create delicious and useful products—all while helping the environment.
