The library would like to thank community partner Go Green Glen Ellyn for its recent donation of an induction cooktop to the Library of Things!
Go Green Glen Ellyn Co-Founder and President Jacqueline Casazza and Director of Operations Angela Powell stopped by the library with the gift and presented it to Executive Director Dawn Bussey. “We wanted to donate a single induction burner and instructions so people could learn about this technology as they consider home renovations or simply buying their own induction burner,” Casazza explained. “I am obsessed with my single induction burner, and it has replaced probably 80% of my gas-based cooking.”
Cardholders can find the induction cooktop in the catalog and place a hold to try it out. “The library is excited to offer equipment that can help cardholders assess practical options for energy efficiency, reduced emissions, improved indoor air quality, and products that support long‑term electrification and climate goals,” Bussey said.
Sustainability of Induction Burners (at a glance)*
1. High energy efficiency
Induction burners heat cookware directly using electromagnetic energy, rather than heating the air or the cooktop surface. Because very little heat is wasted, induction cooking is widely cited as one of the most energy‑efficient cooking methods available. Public sustainability agencies note that induction is significantly more efficient than both gas and traditional electric cooktops. [San Mateo County Sustainability Department ]
2. Lower greenhouse gas emissions
Induction burners run on electricity and do not involve on‑site combustion. This eliminates direct emissions from cooking and shifts energy use to the electric grid, which continues to become cleaner over time. Sustainability research organizations and local government sustainability offices emphasize that switching from gas to induction supports greenhouse‑gas reduction goals, particularly where electricity includes renewable sources. [San Mateo County Sustainability Department ]
3. Better indoor air quality
Because induction cooking does not burn gas, it avoids releasing nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, and other combustion byproducts into indoor spaces. This is frequently cited as both a health and sustainability benefit, especially in public or shared environments where air quality matters. [San Mateo County Sustainability Department ]
4. Reduced wasted heat
Induction burners stay relatively cool compared to gas or radiant electric burners because heat is generated in the pot—not the surface. This reduces ambient heat, which can slightly lower cooling needs in adjacent spaces and improve overall energy performance in kitchens or cafés. [ecoblock ]
5. Compatibility with climate‑forward policies
Many sustainability and energy organizations identify induction cooking as part of broader electrification and climate strategies. Induction technology is frequently referenced in research and policy discussions as a key tool for transitioning away from fossil fuels in buildings while maintaining performance and safety. [MDPI (Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute) ]
Lifecycle studies note that induction burners can be somewhat more material‑intensive to manufacture than simpler gas or radiant electric units. However, research projects examining full lifecycle impacts indicate that the efficiency gains during use are expected to offset this over time, especially in institutional or frequent‑use settings. [Purdue University Sustainability Engineering and Environmental Engineering ]
*Curated with assistance from AI. The content has been reviewed and fact-checked.
