A Guide to a more sustainable BBQ

Temperatures are once again beginning to soar and as we head towards the weekend, many households across the North West will be looking to make the most of the rays by lighting up the barbecue.

After wildfires blazed out of control as temperatures reached record highs just weeks ago, campaigns to call time on disposable barbecues have been hitting the headlines, with London’s Fire Commissioner calling for a temporary ban on disposable barbecues in public parks and open spaces.

Now, barbecues are without a doubt a much-loved feature of a great British summer, but perhaps there are more sustainable ways to enjoy some al fresco dining?

Ditch the disposables

After the fires of this summer’s heatwave, already calls are being made to ban disposable barbecues. Although convenient for days out or camping, disposable barbecues can wreak havoc in open spaces as they stay hot for hours. As such, it is crucial that they are disposed of correctly to avoid a fire breaking out.

Also a result of a throwaway culture is our reliance on disposable plates, cups, and cutlery. This, in addition to the packaging of any food or drink items we purchase, can lead to a significant amount of waste, which can end up in landfill. However, there are steps we can take to opt for reusable crockery and to make sure we are recycling effectively – especially if we’re enjoying a barbecue or picnic in an open space.

Turn up the heat

It might be the signature smell of a barbecue that we all know and love, but charcoal barbecues are by far the least environmentally friendly. If you’re looking to upgrade, why not consider a gas or electric barbecue? And don’t forget to save energy by turning down the heat between flipping!

Dome grills are also good for conserving heat and energy, while new eco-friendly grills are starting to make a more regular appearance on the barbecue scene.

What’s on the menu?

Without a doubt, meat is usually the most common food type on the barbecue, but it doesn’t have to be!

Our world is becoming increasingly aware of the negative environmental impact of animal agriculture –  an industry that is heavily linked to  deforestation and the pollution of land, air, and water, and consequently the emission of greenhouse gases and loss of biodiversity.

There is a whole range of delicious meat-free alternatives available, from plant-based meat substitutes, to grilled halloumi, or marinated vegetable kebabs. What’s more, the grill of a barbecue caramelises the natural sugars of fruits and vegetables, adding a mouthwatering flavour to your dish.

But if meat is a must in your household, there are ways to tuck in whilst being kinder to the planet. Always look out for Red Tractor labels at the supermarket or perhaps try a visit to a local farm shop or butchers and ask a little more about their supply chain, where the meat is from and how the animal was reared

Whether you’re vegan, veggie, or meat-mad, don’t forget locally-sourced produce is key to enjoying a sustainable diet.

Conclusion

Most of all, it’s important to remember that small steps really can make a big difference. Each one of us has something different we can contribute to caring for our common home – you just need to figure out what works best for you. Whether it’s opting for a veggie kebab instead of a burger, tucking into a cold picnic instead of lighting up the disposable barbecue, or remembering to bring your rubbish back from the park to recycle properly, together our small steps can make a big difference.