Cook Fast, Live Young: Green Grilling - Ecofriendly Barbecue Tips

Labor Day marks the unofficial end of summer--but there's time to kick back and enjoy the natural surroundings of your backyard or a nearby park with a good ol' All-American barbecue! But before you do, you may want to consider how your shindig is affecting those beautiful natural surroundings.

Here are a few tips for keeping it green!

Reconsider your grilling method.

If you have a charcoal or wood grill, be aware that you're releasing chemicals and soot into the air every time you barbecue. Propane and electric grills are better for the environment, and you'll save money on fuel in the long run. Of course, you may not be in a position to afford investing in a new piece of equipment right now, and that's okay. There are other ways to be good to the environment. Instead of lighter fluid, which contributes to ground-level ozone, use a chimney starter. For a wood grill, find sustainably-grown hickory or mesquite. And for a charcoal grill, lose the briquettes and use lump coal instead.

Forget the plastic-ware.

You can use your regular dishware instead. You'll save money and save the environment! If you're afraid your things will get cracked or broken, consider investing in sturdy plastic-ware that you can wash and re-use for future barbecues, picnics, and parties.

Keep your clean-up green.

When you're done with your grill-out, make sure to throw those soda cans and empty food containers into the recycling bin. If you have a compost, gather up fruit and vegetable scraps as well as any charcoal remnants in a bag to bring home instead of tossing them in the trash. And pack up your leftovers to reheat for a snack later.

Eat local and seasonal foods. It's economical and environmentally-friendly. I recommend taking a trip to the farmer's market where you may be inspired to include more delicious and healthy fruits and veggies into your meal.

Do you have any tips for grilling green? Share them in the comments!

Juliana Weiss-Roessler has ten years of professional writing and editing experience. For four years, she managed the web content for the star of an Emmy-nominated reality series. Currently, she is an editor for the geek girl e-zine PinkRaygun.com, a contributor to the career blog at Resumark.com, and owner of the food blog CookFastLiveYoung.blogspot.com. Follow her @cookfast on Twitter and learn more about her work at WeissRoessler.com.