Are Microwaves Eco-friendly?

Microwaves can be eco-friendly; if you use them properly.

Eco-perks:

• Cook faster than the oven or stove (in most cases). Thus saves energy.
• Uses less energy overall than an oven or stove (if you’re cooking for the same amount of time).
• Microwaves are recyclable.
• Microwaves are not emitting toxic heat waves into your kitchen and home. Although, in the past, microwaves have been followed around by rumors of radiation attacks, this is no longer an issue. The FDA currently continually runs tests on microwave brands and also notes that as of right now, none on the market are a problem. I do always like a little grain of salt with my FDA, but overall new microwaves are safe. (see below).

Eco-cons:

• If you microwave plastic containers bad chemicals can be released into your kitchen. You can avoid this by using good eco-friendly food containers vs. plastic.
• Can zap nutrients if you cook food too long. This is not exactly an eco-problem, but if you pay for organic veggies, why zap them to death? Make sure you cook for short time periods.
• Most people leave their microwaves plugged in because of the handy clock. Unplug your microwave when its not in use for maximum energy savings.
• Older microwaves can be a hazard. Not only have older models been shown to leak radiation, but they’re not as energy efficient as newer models. It’s not worth the $5 you’ll save to buy an old one – just go new.