Green Your Independence Day: (Eco-)Friendlier Flames

Sunday is the 4th of July, and what better way to honor the nation we love by protecting and conserving its natural resources? This week’s tips will help you plan a bright-green celebration.

Tip #1: Don’t Get Burned

Some 60 million Americans fire up the grill on Independence Day, consuming enough energy – in the form of charcoal, lighter fluid, gas, and electricity – to power 20,000 households for a year, and releasing about 225,000 tons of carbon emissions.

To reduce your output, opt for an electric or propane grill, both of which are cleaner-burning than units powered by charcoal. If you must use coal, choose briquettes made of invasive tree species, or derived from sustainably managed forests. The Rainforest Alliance's SmartWood program and the Forest Stewardship Council help consumers make this distinction; just look for this seal or this one when making your purchase.

Tip #2: Better Barbecuing

Tip #3: Party Preparations

Tip #4: An Explosive Issue

Tell us: How will you go green on the 4th?