MNN - Mother Nature Network

 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 

Barbecuing is an American tradition. So, this year, why not make the quintessential outdoor social event a little more environmentally friendly with some grilling tips that are both quick and easy. Try cleaner-burning propane or electric grills instead of charcoal, since charcoal contributes more to poor air quality. Or go for a solar oven or stove to be completely pollution free. If you do use charcoal, look for lump brands made from wood harvested from sustainably-managed forests. Avoid using lighter fluid, which releases smog-forming chemicals into the atmosphere. Instead, use a chimney starter to get your charcoal nice and hot. Once you're up and running, grill organic meat and vegetables, since they’re not grown with environmentally-harmful chemicals. And get creative by adding fruits like pineapple or pears. Afterwards, you can clean up green with natural cleaners like Soy Clean or Orange Plus made with orange oil. And here’s an added tip: the foil you use with your food, you can reuse it to clean your grill. Just ball it up, use some tongs, ‘cause it might be hot, and scrape away. I'm Jill Cordes.