Small Steps, Happy Planet

Put food waste in its proper place and get better performance from your disposer with these eco-friendly tips and suggestions.

Don't…

• Pour oils or grease down the drain! They can clog and damage the sewer system. Instead, collect fats in a container. Then, throw the container in the trash.
• Try to grind large amounts of food waste at one time.

Do…

• Use cold water when using a disposer. Using hot water wastes energy.
• Run water down the drain for several seconds after grinding is complete to flush waste and keep debris from settling in the plumbing system.
• Save and grind used lemons and other citrus fruit peels to freshen up and disinfect your disposer, naturally.

Things to consider…

• Planning meals helps you create less waste by cooking only what you need.
• Saving and using up leftovers helps reduce additional waste.
• Donating food products you don't intend to consume to a local food bank instead of tossing them into the trash helps eliminate waste—and makes you feel good.