How to Go Red White and Green this 4th of July

With the Fourth of July holiday just around the corner, Waste Management(WM) reminds everyone to be safe and green as the backyard barbeques and celebrations begin.

Disposing of coals or ashes from your Independence Day barbecue can pose a major threat and should never be disposed directly into your trash container. Coals should be cooled for several days, and then placed in a metal container with a tight lid for proper disposal in your waste container. To speed up the cooling process, you may carefully place coals in a metal container full of water to "drown" them like you would a campfire. Remember: never place coals - even if you think they're cool - in plastic, paper or wood containers.

For a greener barbeque, WM suggests using a petroleum-free charcoal starter that is available for purchase at many household discount and hardware stories.

• Each year, Americans toss out enough paper and plastic cups, forks, and spoons to circle the equator 300 times! Using reusable dishware is always best, but if that's not practical, make an effort to purchase environmentally friendly, disposable tableware instead. Look for products made out of renewable and biodegradable materials like sugar cane and bamboo, or ones made from 100% recycled materials.
  
• When entertaining, be sure to provide a convenient, clearly marked receptacle for recycling next to any trash cans. To be even greener, add a bin for food scraps that you can compost later.
  
• Think locally when planning your menu. Shipping ingredients from another part of the world requires a tremendous amount of fuel. Look to your nearest farmers' market for in-season fruits and vegetables, as well as meat, eggs, and dairy products. They're fresher, taste better, and are oftentimes priced the lowest.
  
• Use aluminum foil instead of plastic wrap to cover and store food. Clean foil can be crumpled up and tossed into the recycling bin, making it the better option.
  
• Scrap your traditional paper party invitations and go digital! Online evites are often free, and help cut back on the four billion trees forested each year for paper products.
  
• Encourage guests to car pool; it helps save time, money and the environment! Let guests know who else is coming from their area, and offer to put them in contact with someone who might be able to give them a ride, or might appreciate getting a ride from them.

With just a little extra effort, South Gate residents can have a safe, fun and eco-friendly 4^th of July.