Are you using a large oven to bake a couple of potatoes? You can consume much less energy by using smaller appliances. Toaster ovens do more than just make toast and microwaves don’t just heat up food. I’m amazed at what wonderful meals I can produce using my crock pot instead of the stove. When you’re using your stove, be sure it’s clean in order to reflect the proper amount of heat. Heavy gauge pots and pans are worth the investment. They resist warping, and maintain contact with the entire flame. Ceramic and glass pans are best when oven cooking; they use 25 degrees less heat than metal containers. Also, refrain from opening the door when you check to see if the food is ready. Each time you do that, the oven temperature drops 25%. It’s surprising that with just a few changes how much energy you can save at meal time and still enjoy delicious dishes.

--Nell Newman, Newman’s Own Organics