Summer’s synonymous with backyard barbecues, but the aftermath of all that delicious food and fun can leave a mountain of trash. Fear not, eco-conscious grill masters! Here are some tips to ensure your summer BBQ ends with a bang – a recycling bin bang, that is!
Skip the flimsy plastic plates and opt for reusable alternatives. Consider investing in a colorful set of melamine plates or using beautiful, compostable bamboo plates. Set up clearly labeled recycling bins for cans, bottles, and paper products. A friendly sign reminding guests what goes where can make a big difference. Designate a bin for food scraps – vegetable peels, fruit cores, and even coffee grounds. This can be composted later, creating nutrient-rich fertilizer for your garden!
Before throwing away leftover food, scrape any usable bits onto a serving platter for guests to take home. This minimizes food waste and ensures everyone gets a delicious doggy bag. Don’t just toss aluminum cans and plastic bottles in the bin! Give them a quick rinse to remove any food or drink residue, ensuring they’re clean for recycling. Flatten cardboard boxes used for food or drinks. This saves space in your recycling bin and makes it easier for recycling facilities to process.
Leftover aluminum foil can be reused for wrapping lunches or packing future picnic treats. Ditch paper invitations – send out an e-vite instead. It’s eco-friendly and saves you the hassle of printing and mailing.
By following these simple tips, you can ensure your summer BBQ is a celebration of good food, good company, and good environmental practices. Now that’s something to really fire up the grill about!
