Green Tips: Summer Barbeques

Green Tips | July 3, 2018

Summer is here, which means it’s grilling season! There are some steps you can take to reduce the toxins emitted at barbeques and make your party more environmentally friendly.

Pick the right grill: Grilling with traditional coal creates carbon, particulate matter and ozone emissions, however, there are greener alternatives that create fewer emissions. Natural gas grills create fewer emissions, but they still make an impact if you consider the energy necessary to retrieve the natural gas. Electric powered grills do not produce emissions on-site and are even greener if they are powered by renewable energy. Why not explore pellet grills? They use wood scraps that would otherwise be discarded and can heat up very quickly.

Choose energy-efficient grill accessories: Some grills, including domed-lid grills, retain heat and waste less energy. Purchasing quality tools that last (and don’t need to be thrown away) is also a smart choice.

Use less beef: Beef hamburgers or hot dogs are traditional barbeque food; however, meat production causes environmental damage. Grass-fed beef is a better option because fewer emissions are produced as part of the growth and delivery process. Consider trying non-beef meat burgers such as turkey or chicken burgers.

Go vegetarian: Vegetable or meat-substitute burgers are the most sustainable barbeque food option as they have the smallest impact on the environment. While not traditional barbeque food, veggie burgers are a less harmful way to eat. Try vegetable skewers or grilled vegetables too.

Avoid waste: While it may be convenient to purchase plastic cups or bottled drinks that can be thrown away, try filling pitchers with water or lemonade and use glass or metal cups. Using non-disposable plates, cups, and silverware keeps more waste out of landfills. If disposable plates are necessary, look into less harmful or biodegradable options.

Buy your food and drinks in bulk to reduce unnecessary packaging.

Buying in bulk and eating with reusable plates and cups instead of buying disposable options will also save money!  

Recycle or compost: Be a hospitable host and avoid food waste by sending extra food home with guests.

Always recycle beverage containers. Additionally, food waste can be composted whenever possible.

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