Labor Day - that wonderful final celebration of summer - is almost here and it's time to soak up the last of the summer sun with a backyard BBQ. As you probably already know, your backyard is its own unique biome with plants and animals that depend upon the ecosystem created within. That doesn't mean that you can't have fun there, but it's good to keep the environment in mind when you do. Here are some great ways to go easy on the planet while you celebrate this Labor Day weekend.


Break Out The Grill. If you're eyeing up those end-of-summer BBQ sales, choose a propane model over charcoal. Charcoal releases volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as it burns and those are unhealthy for humans and the environment. Charcoal also gives off 100 times more carbon monoxide than propane.

If you already have a charcoal grill and it's in good working order, no need to chuck it into the landfill. Just look for charcoal made from sustainable and recycled wood scraps to reduce the eco-impact.

Pump Up The Veggies. Sure there is nothing like a good burger or hot dog, but make sure there are lots of great veggies too for your guests to choose from. make a selection to salads, veggie trays, and grilled veggies to minimize the number of burgers and dogs that are served.

Get Picky With Your Meat. Of course, you don't have to serve meat at a BBQ. Tofu and grilled veggies are excellent BBQ selections. But if your guests are meat-lovers, you can appease their taste buds by offering locally farmed, free-range meats.

 

B.Y.O.P. If possible, serve your BBQ meal using reusable or compostable plates, cups, and silverware. Better yet, ask your guests to B.Y.O.P. - "Bring Your Own Plate." That cuts down on the amount of post-party dishes you have to do and it slashes all of the unnecessary waste generated by paper plates, cups, and napkins.

Drink Up - From A Cup. Skip the single-serving bottles and cans and serve guests from pitchers of water, lemonade, or ice-tea. If adult beverages are in order, break open a bottle of wine or mix up a batch of sangria or margaritas. If you decide to go with plastic cups, be sure you have a marker nearby so that guests can label their cups and minimize waste.

DIY Your Doggie Bags. Break out your stash of reusable containers and divvy up the extras among your guests. It will reduce the waste created by plastic baggies and tinfoil and minimize the chance that any food will be wasted too. 

Composting Fun. Do you have a composting bin in your backyard? Make sure that it is clearly labeled and that guests know what they can and cannot dump in there (Corn, yes. Burgers, no.) If you don't have one of your own, ask if any of your guests do and save the compostable leftovers in a large pot or reusable container for them to take home.

Green Games.  This is it. The last weekend of summer. So leave the plug-in toys and gadgets indoor and concentrate on enjoying the last vestiges of the summer sunshine. If kids are coming, make sure you have a stash of frisbees, hula hoops, bubbles, sidewalk chalk, and other fun outdoor games. 

Have a great Labor Day weekend!