The Eco-Friendly Cook-Out

Eco-Centric

We'd all like to be a bit more earth-friendly, and there's no reason it can't start in your own backyard. These eco-smart tips might seem like minor changes, but they'll make all the difference in the world. Lend a hand, save the planet -- and have fun while you're at it!

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Crowd Control

If you usually: Send out paper invites and/or tell people to just show up.

You could try: Sending out an online e-vite, and asking people to RSVP so you can get a head count and don't over-buy.

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Cool Fuel

If you usually: Use charcoal briquettes and lighter fluid.

You could try: A gas grill, or hardwood lump charcoal started with a chimney device. This method gives off a LOT less CO2 and other eco-unfriendly chemicals.

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So Appealing

If you usually: Toss veggie peels, corn husks, etc. in the trash.

You could try: Composting them. It's easier than you think, it's great for your garden, and it's an easy way to get your kids involved in saving their planet.

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Can You Dig It?

If you usually: Buy pre-packaged, chemically treated vegetables.

You could try: Buying them loose, visiting a local farmers market or co-op, or growing your own. You could even use that compost you've been making! If you do go the pre-packaged route, gently scrub the outsides with a little bit of baking soda and water to remove any preservatives or pesticides.

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Deep Dish

If you usually: Use plastic utensils, and paper or plastic plates - which then get tossed out and don't break down.

You could try: Using metal utensils and ceramic plates and taking your guests up on their offer to wash them in the sink. Also consider exploring various brands of bamboo and corn-based biodegradable utensils and recycled fiber paper plates.

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What's Your Line?

If you usually: Use a disposable plastic tablecloth and paper napkins.

You could try: Using a cloth tablecloth, blanket or sheet, and cloth napkins or wash cloths. Toss them in the washer on the cold setting with the rest of the linens and an eco-friendly detergent, and line dry. It might be a little extra work, but you'll have the most stylish cook-out in town!

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In The Drink

If you usually: Serve individual cans and bottles of juice, tea and soft drinks, and then throw out the containers.

You could try: Recycling any cans or bottles, making pitchers of drinks, or buying family-size bottles (which you then recycle).

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This Little Light Of Mine

If you usually: Light the backyard with electric lights or tiki torches.

You could try: Using solar lights, lower-impact stearin candles, or bug-deterring soy wax candles.

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Clean Up Your Act

If you usually: Rely on harsh cleaners to scrub the grill, containers and utensils.

You could try: Scraping the grill while it's still hot so it's clean for next time. Pre-grilling, clean the grate with baking soda paste and a wire brush.

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