When we think of what makes a product green, typically we are looking for reycycled content, sustainable biodegradable materials, or products that are handmade and Fair Trade. I definitely agree that those qualities are ones to look for in green products. But we also have to consider how long a product will last in assessing its “green-ness”. Will it have to be replaced in a few years? Will it last a lifetime?
As cookware goes, its hard to get any greener than cast iron, and its hard to get any more stylish than Le Creuset. Their colorful cast iron pots and pans are built to last a lifetime, literally. As such, it won’t come cheap. I distinctly remember my very first time at a LeCreuset store. It was early in my marriage when money was tight. My husband and I ventured into the LC store at a nearby outlet mall. We fell in love with their pieces, but all we could afford was a kettle. It was the best kettle I’ve ever bought and set me up as a Le Creuset fan for life.
The 6-piece set shown above includes a 5.5-quart round French oven, a 2.25-quart saucier pan, a 10.25″ square skillet grill and an 8″ x 11.75″ roaster — a perfect set for a green cook’s kitchen. Even if you can afford only one piece, Le Creuset cookware is of such great quality that its likely you’ll be able to pass it down to your children.
Why It’s Green:
- Cast iron is recyclable and can last forever with proper care
Price: $319.99-494.99 (aff)
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I’m Jennae Petersen, and I’m a lot of things. A mother, a graphic artist, a connosieur of beautiful interiors and a purveyor of all things design. Green Your Decor was borne of frustration in my attempts to find eco-friendly housewares that were also beautiful, and inspiration to do something to reduce my own carbon footprint and help others do the same in a beautiful way.
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I agree – Le Creuset items are forever, and therefore, are very eco-friendly. They’re amazing!
i so love your blog. i found you on twitter. give thanks for twittering. yes, the cookware above is inspiring me to save for it …. my financial advisor will love that one. oh yeah… i am going to add your link to my bap living and go green sangha social networking sites. enjoy the weekend.
Go Green BAP Author Ananda Leekes last blog post..Green Living Links
I love my Le Creuset(s)! I have red ones!! They cook food like no other and so easy to clean. I never really thought about them being “green”, but very good point…makes me think of them in a different light. BTW…love your blog Jennae
@marlynn and Stancie They are easily the best quality pots I have found — not that I’m a chef. But the idea of a product that lasts forever is definitely what “green” is all about.
@Ananda Leeke I like the sound of that too
Thanks for the links.
My Le Creuset allows me to use cheaper pieces of meat (i.e. using the whole cow and not wasting), the cast iron is non-stick so I don’t need a ton of oil (which clogs drains and sewers or if i freeze it and throw it away ends up in a landfill) and I don’t use a ton of soap washing it. Best of all I have the green color above and it just brightens my day! Pretty green if you ask me!