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Posted: 25 Apr 2011 11:06 PM PDT

How to have an Eco-Friendly Barbecue

In today’s environmentally aware world, people are becoming more conscious of the damage to
the environment that a non Eco-friendly barbecue can cause.

A non Eco-friendly barbecue can release many chemicals and emissions into the air, however with a little forethought and planning, it is very easy to barbeque and still go green. The following tips can help.

Build your own Eco-friendly Barbecue Grill

The very best Eco-friendly barbecue is one that is home built. A few rocks or bricks surrounding charcoal will do the trick and a metal shelf from the kitchen oven works well as a grill top. It is helpful to have the barbeque at a
proper height to avoid back strain. A homemade barbecue will not win any beauty contests but the
user can feel assured the environment is not being harmed.

Purchase Charcoal Responsibly

Avoid buying charcoal briquettes, as they may contain products such as sodium nitrate and coal dust as a result of processing and also contribute to deforestation. Lump charcoal from sustainable forests is the green choice. It is marked by the Forest Stewardship Council logo, which proves the product was produced with ecological integrity.

Consider Domestic Charcoal

The majority of charcoal used in the United Kingdom is imported. This contributes not only to the deforestation problem but adds transport emissions to an already overtaxed atmosphere. Domestic, FSC approved charcoal can be purchased in 3kg bags at stores such Tesco, B & Q and Sainsbury’s for around £6. Online sources include
dorsetcharcoal.co.uk or graigfarm.co.uk.

Avoid Using Natural Gas at your Eco-friendly Barbecue

While it is true that natural gas burns cleaner than standard charcoal, it actually leaves a larger
overall footprint and is still non-renewable energy.

A basic gas grill uses a great deal of fuel when all of its parts, including electronic ignition, are considered. Eco-friendly charcoal will simply replace carbon monoxide that was absorbed by trees and other plants during their lifetimes, making it carbon neutral.

In short, natural gas is a big no-no for your Eco-friendly barbecue.

Say No to Firelighters

Firelighters will make the barbecue heat up faster but they will also leave toxic residue on food if insufficient time has passed between lighting and cooking. Using sticks, twigs or old newspaper is a safer alternative, especially
with lump charcoal.

This method does require close supervision, but offers a great opportunity to sit
down and enjoy the great outdoors while your Eco-friendly barbecue heats up. Using a cover while cooking will
cut down on total emissions, as well.

Don’t Use Disposable Barbecues

Disposable barbecues offer convenience in that they don’t require cleaning and can
be tossed after use. Most people don’t realise they are generally not recyclable and are therefore
quite bad for the environment. An investment in a small barbecue that can be used again is a better
choice. A product called the Portable Barbecue Bucket can be found at crocus.co.uk for around
£20.

Here you can find a list of great Eco-friendly barbecue grills.

Watch The Packaging

Buying large packs of barbecue meat should be avoided, as it contains low quality ingredients and the meat itself is most likely factory farmed. Better to use high grade meats with homemade marinades and flavourings. Buy only what is actually needed for the meal, including beverages. Planning carefully will eliminate leftovers that often get thrown away and wasted. Using real plates and flatware will result in better tasting
food and will not add to the trash overload in local landfills. The only disposable item at an Eco-friendly barbecue
should be napkins made from recycled material.

Cleaning up a grill can be green, too.

Using a grill brush in addition to baking soda is a super gentle way to get the job done and gives great results.

Following these simple tips can result in a delicious outdoor meal that is easy on the environment. Another little known green fact is FSC charcoal remnants can be composted and used again in a garden or flower bed, making it super friendly after the event.

It is wise to remember that everything people do has an effect on the planet and its resources. There is only one Earth so always go forth with consideration.