hooray for the red, white, and blue -- and green!

Planning a Fourth of July BBQ? Here's how to make it fun: with gas!

Seriously. This is our plea for you to use a gas-powered barbecue instead of charcoal or electric. Why? Well ...

1. Gas BBQs produce about half as much carbon dioxide as charcoal grills and about a third as much as electric ones.

2. Charcoal and lighter-fluid smoke give off volatile organic compounds that pose a risk to your liver, kidneys, and nervous system. Gas and electric BBQs don't.

3. If you have to use a charcoal BBQ, look for sustainably farmed coals or wood chips certified by the Forest Stewardship Council. (The package should be marked.)

Some other things to ponder this July 4th:

Give soy a shot. Going veggie -- even a little bit -- eases the strain on the planet.

If eating vegetarian on the Fourth of July seems downright un-American to you, at least don't cook your meat until it's black. You'll reduce the effects of the volatile organic compounds.

Go easy on the paper plates and plastic utensils -- and remember that some cities recycle plastic utensils.

If you're celebrating in a public space, pick up your trash -- it's an easy way to keep America beautiful.

Thanks to idealbite.com for some of the ideas in this article.

Happy Independence Day!

Got any other eco tips for the 4th of July?