Summer is here, which means it's time to fire up the BBQ and enjoy some mouth-watering food with your loved ones under the sun. But as you indulge in your favourite grilled treats, have you ever stopped to consider the impact on the environment? According to the University of Sheffield, the average summer BBQ releases more harmful greenhouse gas emissions than an 80-mile car journey. This is a reminder that we need to be mindful of our carbon footprint, even during our summertime celebration.
Looking to switch up your BBQ routine? Why not try getting your meat and fish from your local farmers markets? Not only will you be enjoying delicious, fresh food, but you'll also be supporting your community. And don't forget about the veggies! Grilled vegetables are an underrated BBQ gem. Just place them in a roasting pan on top of the grill to get that signature BBQ smoky flavour. Trust us, you'll be pleasantly surprised at how amazing they taste.
While single-use plastics may seem like a convenient option, let's try to avoid them. Instead, opt for using any supplies you already have at home or make the switch to reusable cutlery. You can even keep a separate fun set specifically for summer events. To avoid using more plastic, try using sustainable alternatives like reusable straws, bamboo cutlery, palm leaf plates, and metal cups. Making your own snacks, dips, and drinks is another great way to avoid any plastic packaging from the supermarket.
Let's not forget about the impact our BBQs can have on the environment! To reduce energy and CO2 output, it's important to use your BBQ grill efficiently. Keep the lid on and adjust the vents to maintain heat and moisture, which not only helps cook your food more evenly but also saves energy. If you're using a gas grill, turn off the gas when you're not cooking anything to prevent wasted energy. Also, try to use only the necessary amount of firelighters or biomass pellets needed to cook your food. By being mindful of our grilling habits, we can enjoy our BBQ season while minimizing our impact on the environment.
Summertime is a time for us to come together with our loved ones and enjoy some delicious food. But it's important to remember that we need to do our part to protect the environment while we do so. From choosing sustainable alternatives from avoiding single-use plastics, to being mindful of our grilling habits, we can all make a difference. So, let's fire up our BBQs, try out some new recipes, and make this summer a fun and eco-friendly one!
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