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by Chloe Greenfield
Hot dogs, cold drinks, sunshine, and sustainability—yes, they can all coexist! Summer BBQ season is here, and while the smell of smoky grilled veggies and juicy burgers draws us in, the trail of single-use plastics and disposable everything can leave a sour taste behind. But don’t hang up your apron just yet—eco-friendly barbecue bliss is totally within reach.
Today, I’m dishing out my favorite simple, sustainable swaps to green up your grill game without sacrificing an ounce of fun. So grab your spatula, fire up that grill, and let’s make your summer sizzle in all the right (eco-conscious) ways!
Paper plates and plastic cutlery may seem convenient, but they’re landfill frequent flyers. Instead, try reusable alternatives that not only look better but last way longer.
Opt for:
Hosting a larger crowd? Ask guests to bring their own plates—or pick up a cute thrifted set just for outdoor gatherings!
If you’re wondering what to use when you’re on-the-go or traveling, check out our guide to Smart and Eco-Friendly Travel Packing Tips for portable reusables!
Ah, the iconic red solo cup—a party staple and a landfill resident for centuries (not exaggerating). There’s a brighter, greener alternative:
Add some masking tape and a marker, and you’ve got instant name tags that keep people from grabbing a new cup “just in case.”
And of course, don’t forget a straw swap! Glass or silicone straws are game-changers. Want to see the magic up close? Head over to Behind the Scenes: How Glass Straws Are Made for a look at the artistry behind your next sip.
That classic bag of charcoal? Often it’s loaded with binders, chemicals, and synthetic additives—no thanks!
Here’s a trio of greener grilling options:
Plus, if you’re using wood chips for flavor, try sustainably harvested options, like mesquite or applewood!
Try soaking organic rosemary or thyme sprigs in water and tossing them on the grill for a fragrant, smoky herb scent that gives your food some serious gourmet points.
Now, I’m not about to shame your steak—but incorporating a few plant-forward dishes can slash your BBQ’s carbon footprint.
Some tasty, grill-approved ideas:
And don’t forget plant-based hot dogs and sausages—they’ve come so far and can totally hold their own at the grill station.
Mixing a few vegetarian options into your BBQ lineup also helps guests with dietary needs—everyone wins!
If you’re using a charcoal grill, consider how you’re starting your fire. Skip lighter fluid, which releases nasty VOCs and reeks of chemicals.
Try this instead:
Bonus: no more weird chemical smell clinging to your grilled goodness.
You don’t need streamers and sparkly balloons to set the mood—nature, twinkle lights, and reusable party decor do the job beautifully.
Try:
Solar-powered lights are an easy swap that instantly elevates the vibe!
Hosting zero-waste doesn’t end with the last marshmallow s’more. Here’s how to keep the green vibes going during clean-up:
Even better? Give leftover food a second life. Make next-day BBQ bowls or freeze extra veggie burgers. Compost scraps (yes, watermelon rinds and corn husks count too!)—and if you’re new to this magical alchemy, hop over to Why Composting Isn’t Gross (And How It Can Be Your Superpower) for a crash course.
Hosting an eco-friendly BBQ doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style, satisfaction, or social fun. It’s about making mindful swaps that add up to something beautiful—less trash, more joy, and a place everyone wants to come back to next weekend.
Hosting your own low-waste cookout? Tag us @mysimple.life.official on Instagram—we’d LOVE to see how you’re swapping, styling, and sizzling sustainably this summer!
PS: If you’re packing up your BBQ kit for a camping trip or beach cookout, don’t miss Green Lunch Hacks: How to Pack Low-Waste, Eco-Friendly Meals for more smart (and sandwich-friendly) ideas.
Give these swaps a try, invite your friends, and let’s raise a glass (reusable, of course) to a summer filled with sun, salads, and sustainability. Happy grilling, greenies! 🌞🍔🌿
Chloe Greenfield
Chloe's journey into eco-friendly living began when she accidentally brought her reusable coffee cup to a meeting and was dubbed "the tree hugger" by her coworkers. Leaning into the label, she discovered a passion for sustainability and simple living. Now, she's on a mission to make sustainable habits fun, relatable, and easy for everyone—no tree-hugging required (though she still does it sometimes).
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