Every day, tons of dangerous greenhouse gases are released into the atmosphere, damaging the planet at a steady rate. The United States, ranked the second-highest emitter of greenhouse gases, contributed 27% of global emissions in 2019. Out of this, major home appliances account for about one-fifth of US energy-related greenhouse emissions.

To promote environmental sustainability, the US Department of Energy and Environment Protection Agency established the ENERGY STAR Label – a voluntary labeling program to identify the most eco-friendly products. A product that meets the labeling guidelines uses less energy than non-certified models, used least amount of unrecyclable materials in manufacturing, and is water-efficient gets a star that consumers can easily identify.

Today, manufacturers compete to make the most sustainable products, with brands such as Samsung, LG, Bosch, and Miele leading the bunch. Your individual efforts towards a greener environment can start from your home through simple acts such as recycling, using less water, switching off unused appliances, and switching up old appliances for new ‘greener’ models.

Green appliances not only reduce the emission of dangerous gases, but they also help to save on utility bills so as not to use as much energy as conventional appliances. To make your home more sustainable, here are the top five home appliances you can start with:

1. Induction cooktop: The induction cooktop is ranked the most energy-efficient kitchen appliance. Instead of burning thermal energy or natural gas like stoves, the cooktop directly induces heat to your pots and pans. The cooktop only switches on when cookware is placed over it, and there are also automatic switch-offs and heat control to make sure energy is not wasted. Note that only cookware with cast iron or stainless-steel elements can work on an induction cooktop.
2. Electric Kettle: Using an electric kettle is a top sustainable alternative to gas stoves. While gas stove burns more energy, kettles boil faster and use less electricity. Choose kettles with automatic switches and temperature control to prevent prolonged boiling or reboiling when the water gets cold. Some kettles also have a measuring scale that allows boiling just the amount of water you need to make your morning tea.
3. Refrigerator/Freezer: Fridges account for 15% of a household’s energy consumption. Most old refrigerators emit harmful chemicals such as chlorofluorocarbon and hydrofluorocarbons, which are dangerous to the atmosphere. Manual defrost features also use less electricity. When getting a new refrigerator, look out for the Energy label.
4. Coffee Maker: As much as we love coffee, the single-use pods, disposable paper filters, and plastic cups used in making coffee end up undecomposed in the landfill. For a greener environment, use reusable filters and ditch single-use pods. Machines that are made with less plastic are also preferable.
5. Blender: Use blenders made of more glass and less plastic or rubber. Some blenders can adjust power usage as each cup size requires. Also, choose blenders that use less wattage for more speed as this reduces energy consumption. Manual blenders can also be substituted for electric ones.

Lastly, remember that a greener environment can be achieved by the little habits we build around using our appliances at home. And these little acts can help save the world.