There’s something about a backyard BBQ that just screams summer: the smoky scent of the grill, clinking mason jars, bursts of laughter, and sticky hands from one too many slices of watermelon. But you know what doesn’t scream summer fun? Overflowing trash bins full of plastic cutlery, foam plates, and half-eaten burgers wrapped in cling wrap.
Luckily, it’s totally possible to host a BBQ that brings the flavor and keeps the planet in mind.
Whether you’re feeding a few close friends or your whole block, this guide will help you throw a cookout that’s low on waste and high on good vibes. Let’s fire it up.
Ditch the Disposables (For Real This Time)
The biggest culprit at any cookout is the sheer amount of single-use stuff—plastic cups, paper napkins, foam plates, cutlery that snaps mid-salad. They’re convenient in the moment, but they’re also landfill-bound by the time the grill cools down.
Instead, opt for reusables wherever possible. Real plates, cloth napkins, and stainless-steel cutlery instantly elevate your setup—and they don’t crack under pressure (or grilled corn). You don’t need a full matching set, either. Mix and match from your kitchen, borrow from friends, or hit up a thrift store for a quirky, low-cost collection.
Pro tip: Set out a clearly labeled bus bin for used dishes and napkins so guests know where to put things. You’ll save yourself a mountain of cleanup later.
Grill Greener (and Cleaner)
Traditional charcoal grills can produce more carbon emissions than you might expect, especially when using petroleum-based lighter fluid or chemically treated briquettes. But that doesn’t mean you have to give up the grill—it just means being more mindful about what you’re burning.
If you’re a charcoal lover, choose natural lump charcoal or coconut shell briquettes, which burn cleaner and are free from additives. Or go one step greener and grill with propane, which produces fewer emissions overall. Want to ditch fossil fuels entirely? Solar cookers and electric grills are a growing option, especially for apartment dwellers.
Skip the lighter fluid altogether and opt for natural fire starters—think cardboard egg cartons, dryer lint, or untreated wood shavings.
Focus on Planet-Friendly Plates
We’re not just talking tableware—what you serve matters, too. BBQs tend to lean heavy on meat, but incorporating more plant-based dishes can seriously lower your event’s environmental footprint. Burgers made with black beans, lentils, or mushrooms? Surprisingly satisfying. Grilled veggie skewers, corn on the cob, watermelon salad, and homemade slaws? Yes, please.
Buying in bulk and prepping dishes at home also helps you skip the plastic packaging and pre-made trays. And when you do serve meat, go for smaller portions sourced locally and sustainably. (Think: quality over quantity.)
Drinks Without the Waste
Say goodbye to disposable solo cups and plastic straws. Instead, set up a drink station with glass jars, labeled pitchers, and compostable or reusable straws. If you’re expecting a crowd, encourage guests to bring their own drinkware (BYOC is totally a thing) or hand out reusable cups with washi tape and markers so everyone can label theirs.
Avoid individual cans and bottles if possible and opt for large-batch drinks—like lemonade, iced tea, or punch—in dispensers. Not only does it reduce waste, but it also gives off serious picnic-in-the-park charm.
Serve Sustainably with These Essentials
To keep your BBQ low-waste and high-function, here’s the only list you’ll need:
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Unpaper Towels: Perfect for spills, messes, and casual napkin duty. Washable and way cuter than paper.
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Cloth Napkins: Elevate your table while keeping waste low. Mix patterns for a fun, casual look.
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Reusable Plates & Utensils: Bamboo, enamel, or thrifted ceramic—anything but foam or plastic!
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Reusable Bowl Covers or Beeswax Wraps: Keep sides covered and leftovers fresh without the plastic wrap.
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Bulk Condiments in Jars: Skip single-serve packets and offer squeeze bottles or homemade sauces.
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Compost Bin or Scraps Bucket: Make it easy for guests to separate food waste, and bonus points if you have a home compost system.
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Drink Dispensers & Reusable Cups: Keep beverages flowing without the trash pile.
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Recycled Decorations: Use what you have—fabric bunting, upcycled jars, string lights—for a festive, eco-vibe.
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Reusable Cooler Packs: Ditch the single-use ice bags and go for long-lasting freezer packs.
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Wet Bag for Reusables: Toss dirty napkins and towels in one spot to wash later without hassle.
Make Cleanup a Breeze
A low-waste BBQ shouldn’t end in a dumpster dive. Create stations that make cleanup intuitive and easy: one for compost, one for recyclables, and one for used reusables. Label them clearly with signs (bonus points for silly rhymes or doodles) so even guests new to the eco-life know what to do.
Have a basket of cloth wipes or reusable towels on hand for sticky fingers, table wipe-downs, and the inevitable ketchup mishap. Wet Bags are perfect for keeping used linens contained until they can hit the laundry.
And remember—if you’re using reusable gear, you’ve already done most of the cleanup work just by avoiding trash altogether.
Keep the Vibe, Skip the Waste
Hosting an eco-friendly BBQ doesn’t mean giving up on the fun. In fact, it often adds to it. Colorful cloth napkins, funky thrifted plates, homemade lemonade in mason jars—it all creates a cozy, joyful vibe that’s way more charming than plastic tablecloths and throwaway forks.
Plus, it sparks conversation. Your guests might leave inspired to throw their own low-waste gathering or try their hand at composting. That ripple effect? That’s the magic of intentional hosting.
Imperfect Effort Is Still Worth Celebrating
Maybe someone brings chips in a plastic bag. Maybe your grill isn’t the greenest model. That’s okay. Hosting an eco-friendly BBQ isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress. It’s about doing what you can with what you have, and showing that sustainability can be accessible, fun, and seriously tasty.
So go ahead—invite your people, fire up the grill, and toast to a summer celebration that’s as kind to the planet as it is to your taste buds.
Need a few final swaps before you fire up the grill? Our Sustainable Kitchen Collection has all the reusable goods you need to host a waste-free cookout with style.
