4th of July - Declare Carbon Independence...for Your Grill

Tuesday, June 30, 2009 by Julie Urlaub
image: grillingThe cumulative impacts of the millions simultaneous burns around the country this Independence Day will really add up.  By raising eco awareness on ‘greener’ barbecue options, you can make a significant difference in your personal life, local community, and the overall environment.

The 4th of July is the pinnacle of the summer barbecue season.  Last year, over 66 million Americans participated in a barbecue, with a large number of these events taking place on the Fourth.  The holiday represents a great opportunity to promote a sustainable lifestyle and reduce your ecological impact.

There are a number of ways to add eco awareness to your celebration.  Here are a few green tips from Sierra Magazine to help reduce the impacts of your grill this weekend:

•    Cleaner-burning propane or electric grills are preferable over charcoal fired grills, which contribute more to poor air quality. For those seeking a more sustainable lifestyle, consider a solar oven or a stove avoids emissions altogether.

•    For those who do use charcoal, consider lump brands.  These are made from real hardwood firewood chunks which have been charred and do not contain chemical binders or igniting agents. 

•    Switch from lighter fluid, which releases smog-forming VOCs, to a chimney starter.

As a personal consultant to individuals seeking a more sustainable lifestyle, I encourage clients to constantly evaluate alternatives in all areas of their life.  A large part of building a personal sustainability plan includes choosing options and products that are good for both the environment as well as your personal well being. 

Incorporating sustainable choices into your daily living not only impacts you but the community and environment in which you live.  Take this 4th of July holiday as an opportunity to add sustainable choices to your celebration and to explore the independence of a sustainable lifestyle.

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