buy FSC certified charcoal

don’t use patio heaters – there’s plenty of heat coming from the barbie, or buy a wood burning chiminea if necessary

check the sources of the fish and meat – buy local if you can

marinating in advance adds lots of flavour and enables the food to cook more evenly (as does coating in a little oil)

grill more vegetables – peppers, aubergines, tomatoes, courgettes are especially good

serve with plenty of salads (and of course, beer and wine)

buy your furniture from an FSC certified source

don’t put on more charcoal than you really need

don’t throw on loads of petrol – light the barbie a bit sooner and give it time to get properly alight