If you'd like to take a more environmentally-friendly approach to grilling this year, be aware that although charcoal and briquettes are the least-expensive fuel options, they're also the dirtiest.

Charcoal sends soot and carbon monoxide into the air, lump charcoal contributes to both deforestation and greenhouse gas, and briquettes can contain various carcinogenic chemicals from the wood's previous life.

Options?

• Coconut shell charcoal burns without smoke, odor or harmful emissions.
• Look for charcoal, made from leftover furniture, that is free of additives, coal, chemicals and fillers.
• Propane and natural gas are the most environment-friendly liquid options, and solar-powered barbecues are now starting to hit the market.