Everyday pots and pans are essential tools in the kitchen. Although inexpensive cookware is becoming more widely available, many items suffer from coatings that quickly peel off, requiring replacement after just a few years. To reduce waste, it’s best to choose products that are built to last.
There are growing concerns about the impact of coatings containing chemicals such as PTFE on both the environment and health. It’s advisable to select types that are kind to both the planet and your body.
This article introduces sustainable pots and pans. Whether you’re looking for long-lasting materials or easy-to-maintain options, you’ll find a range of products to consider.
How to Choose Sustainable Pots & Pans
- Choose items that do not contain PTFE, PFOA, or PFOS
- Opt for cookware that lasts a long time
- Select materials that are easy to recycle
PTFE, PFOA, and PFOS—found in many Teflon-coated cookware—are chemicals that do not break down and can persist indefinitely in the environment and within living organisms. Therefore, choose options free from these substances.
Long-lasting materials are also important. Cast-iron pots and pans, with proper care, can last a lifetime. Recyclable materials provide peace of mind when disposal becomes necessary. Stainless steel, copper, and aluminum are all easily recyclable.
Choose by Material Type
Durable Cast Iron
Cast-iron cookware, known for its longevity, works well at high temperatures—perfect for grilling meat or stir-frying vegetables. Cast-iron pots are ideal for stews and braising, and they even provide added iron nutrition. They are heavy and require maintenance, so best suited for those willing to care for them regularly.
Versatile Stainless Steel
Stainless steel cookware offers high durability and suits a wide variety of recipes. It resists rust and is relatively low maintenance. However, its lower thermal conductivity can make cooking take a bit longer.
Copper for Precision Heat Control
Copper cookware heats up quickly and evenly and has natural antibacterial properties. It’s excellent for precise temperature control during cooking and is also resistant to rust. But copper is heavy and prone to warping—making it less ideal for those with limited wrist strength.
Lightweight & Conductive Aluminum
Aluminum cookware is lightweight, affordable, and has excellent heat conductivity—ideal for easy handling. However, it is vulnerable to acids and alkalis, so food should be transferred to other containers for storage. At very high temperatures (around 600°C), harmful substances may leach out, so avoid overheating and never leave it empty on high heat.
Non-Stick Coated Types
Coated cookware offers easy cleaning, good heat retention, and reduced food sticking. It’s important to avoid scratching the coating—use wooden or silicone spatulas. Key coating types include:
Coating
- Diamond coat: mixed with diamond particles
- Titanium coat: includes titanium particles
- Ceramic coating: made from ceramic materials, highly heat-resistant
- Enamel coating: coated with enamel (porcelain), known for durability
Choose the Right Size for Your Use
Select size based on use and number of people. A smaller set suffices for single people, while larger pieces are more convenient for batch cooking.
Size guide
- For 1 person: pot ~16 cm / frying pan ~16–20 cm
- For 2–3 people: pot ~18–20 cm / frying pan ~22–26 cm
- For 4 people: pot >20 cm / frying pan ~28–34 cm
12 Sustainable Pots
Cast Iron
Deep cast-iron pot by Oigen Foundry
A deep cast-iron pot by Oigen Foundry, a trusted Japanese brand established in 1852. With a depth of 9.5 cm, it’s perfect for simmered dishes and deep-frying. Ideal for everyday use and cooking for 2–3 people. Compatible with IH, gas, charcoal, and oven heat sources.
ポチップ
Cast-iron pot with lid from LODGE
A cast-iron pot with lid from LODGE, a beloved U.S. brand for over 120 years. Coated with plant-based oil and free from chemicals. Perfect for stews and slow-cooked dishes. Compatible with IH cooktops. At 26 cm, it’s suitable for family-sized meals.
ポチップ
Sukiyaki pot by Iwachū
A sukiyaki pot crafted by Iwachū, a renowned Nambu cast-iron manufacturer in Japan. Handcrafted by skilled artisans with a timeless design. The 4 mm thick base ensures slow, even heating to draw out flavor—ideal for hotpot lovers.
ポチップ
Stainless Steel
Small saucepan from Scanpan
A small saucepan from Danish brand Scanpan made with recycled aluminum. The tri-ply design (stainless steel + aluminum) ensures even heat distribution. The stainless steel body adds a premium look—perfect for solo use. Compatible with gas and IH.
ポチップ
Copper
French-made copper pot
A large French-made copper pot with excellent heat conductivity, ideal for making jams and desserts. The wide opening allows for easy stirring—recommended for baking and confectionery enthusiasts.
ポチップ
Coated Types
Compact enamel pot from Le Creuset
A compact 16 cm enamel pot from Le Creuset, a French brand founded in 1925. Ideal for boiling water, cooking pasta or vegetables. Durable, easy-to-clean, and comes in cute, vibrant colors. Great for solo use.
ポチップ
Non-stick pot from GreenPan
A 16.5 cm non-stick pot from GreenPan, free from PFOA and other harmful substances. Designed with a muted, stylish color and a transparent lid to check contents. Compatible with IH, gas, and oven. Ideal for single living.
SHOP
Check Green Pan Official Website
High-quality pot from Scanpan
A high-quality pot from Danish brand Scanpan with a restaurant-grade titanium coating that’s free from PFOA and PFOS. Metal utensils won’t scratch the surface. The stainless steel body and handle add a luxurious touch. 10-year warranty included.
ポチップ
Long-lasting pot made by Scanpan
A long-lasting pot made by Scanpan, with five-layer construction combining aluminum and stainless steel for even cooking. PFOA-free titanium coating resists scratches—even with metal tools. Compatible with gas, IH, and oven. Backed by a 10-year warranty.
ポチップ
20 cm non-stick pot from GreenPan
A 20 cm non-stick pot from GreenPan, ideal for family meals. Free from PFOA, featuring a ceramic and diamond particle coating for fast, even heat. The vintage-style dark green adds elegance. Works on gas and IH stoves.
SHOP
Check Green Pan Official Website
Colorful enamel dutch oven from Le Creuset
A colorful enamel pot from Le Creuset, known as the “100-year pot.” Rust-resistant and low maintenance. Great for cooking stews or rice. Comes with a lid and is compatible with gas, IH, and oven heat sources.
ポチップ
Lightweight dutch oven from GreenPan
A lightweight pot from GreenPan that looks like cast iron but is made from aluminum with ceramic coating. Excellent heat conductivity, suitable for stews, curry, and waterless cooking. Oven-safe and generously sized at 22 cm.
SHOP
Check Green Pan Official Website
13 Sustainable Frying Pans
Cast Iron
Cast-Iron Skillet for One-Person Use
The LODGE Blacklock skillet is about 25% lighter than traditional cast iron. Made of durable ductile iron, it retains heat well and keeps food warm after cooking. Compatible with all heat sources including ovens. Comes with a helper handle—built to last a lifetime.
ポチップ
Omelette-Perfect Cast-Iron Frying Pan
A cast-iron frying pan from Iwachū, a long-established Japanese brand since 1902. The curved shape is perfect for making omelets. Made in Japan, reducing environmental shipping impact. Stylish arched handle. Compatible with IH cooktops.
ポチップ
Stainless Steel
Uncoated Stainless Steel Frying Pan
A high-quality frying pan from German brand Fissler. Made entirely of stainless steel, it’s great for sautéing at high temperatures. No coating means it lasts for years. Sleek, premium design.
ポチップ
Copper
Copper Tamagoyaki Pan
A copper tamagoyaki pan handcrafted in Tokyo by Nakamura Copperworks, with four generations of expertise. Offers excellent heat control, perfect for fluffy Japanese rolled omelets. Ideal for daily bento makers.
ポチップ
Long-Handled Copper Frying Pan
A 27 cm copper frying pan made in Tsubame-Sanjo, Japan’s artisan hub. The long handle is perfect for serious home chefs. Large enough for family meals. Japanese-made to reduce shipping emissions.
ポチップ
Coated Type
20 cm Non-Stick Frying Pan
A compact 20 cm non-stick frying pan from GreenPan, free from harmful chemicals like PFOA. White coating and gold handle add elegance. Suitable for gas and IH stoves. Great for single servings.
SHOP
Check Green Pan Official Website
Professional-Grade Frying Pan
A restaurant-grade aluminum frying pan from Scanpan. Coated with PFOA-free titanium, it resists scratches from metal utensils. Stainless steel handle for durability. Compatible with gas, induction, and oven. 10-year warranty.
ポチップ
Cute Pink Sustainable Frying Pan
A stylish pink non-stick frying pan from GreenPan with a gold-accented stainless steel handle. Small 20 cm size perfect for solo cooking. Brings joy and sustainability to your kitchen.
SHOP
Check Green Pan Official Website
Recycled Aluminum Frying Pan
A 24 cm frying pan made with recycled aluminum by Scanpan. PFOA-free titanium coating resists scratches. Deep shape (6.5 cm) minimizes spills. Great for couples. Gas and oven compatible. 10-year warranty.
ポチップ
Stainless Handle Frying Pan for Two
A 24 cm GreenPan frying pan with a PFOA-free non-stick coating. Stainless steel handle for a firm grip. Great for light stir-fries. Compatible with gas and IH stoves.
SHOP
Check Green Pan Official Website
Deep Non-Stick Frying Pan with Lid
A deep 6.5 cm frying pan with lid by Scanpan, made with recycled aluminum and durable titanium coating. Non-stick and PFOA/PFOS-free. Scratch-resistant and built to last. Compatible with gas, oven, and IH. 10-year warranty.
ポチップ
Heavy-Duty Titanium-Coated Frying Pan
A large 26 cm frying pan from Scanpan with long-lasting titanium coating. Made from recycled aluminum. Durable enough for metal brushes. Gas and oven compatible. 10-year warranty.
ポチップ
Large 28 cm Frying Pan
A 28 cm non-stick frying pan from GreenPan, using ceramic and diamond coating, free from PFAS like PFOA. Ideal for cooking for 3–4 people. Compatible with gas and IH.
SHOP
Check Green Pan Official Website
Sustainable Pot & Frying Pan Sets
Cast Iron
Cast-Iron Pot & Frying Pan Set
A set from Iwachū, a renowned Nambu cast-iron maker. Includes pot and frying pan with lids. Compatible with gas and IH. Great for those who want to cook with traditional, long-lasting cast-iron tools.
ポチップ
Coated Type
3-Piece Eco-Friendly Cookware Set
An eco-friendly 3-piece set from GreenPan in a limited smoky sky-blue color. Includes frying pan, egg pan, and saucepan with handles and lids. PFAS-free. Wood-style handles add warmth to your kitchen.
SHOP
Check Green Pan Official Website
