How to Reduce Your Carbon Footprint while Grilling

Imagine the sun setting on a warm summer evening, the aroma of sizzling food wafting through the air as you gather with friends and family around the grill. Grilling has long been a beloved tradition, a symbol of relaxation and togetherness. But did you know that this seemingly simple act of cooking can have a significant impact on the environment? In the age of climate change and growing environmental awareness, it's crucial to consider how we can make even our favorite pastimes more sustainable.

Grilling is about more than just satisfying your taste buds; it's an opportunity to make a positive change for the planet. The importance of reducing our carbon footprint has never been more critical, and in this blog post, we're going to explore how you can do just that while still enjoying the pleasures of outdoor cooking. We'll walk you through a series of eco-friendly grilling strategies that not only benefit the environment but also enhance your grilling experience. From choosing the right grill to opting for sustainable fuel sources and even offsetting your emissions, we've got you covered. Let's embark on this journey together and discover how to grill in a way that's not only delicious but also eco-conscious.

Choose the Right Grill

When it comes to grilling, the type of grill you use can significantly influence its environmental impact. Let's take a closer look at the three most common grill types: charcoal, gas, and electric.

Charcoal Grills: Charcoal grills have long been a staple of outdoor cooking. However, they have a notable environmental downside. The production of charcoal involves cutting down trees and can contribute to deforestation, which is a major driver of climate change. Additionally, charcoal grills release a substantial amount of carbon dioxide and other pollutants into the atmosphere when the charcoal burns. This makes them one of the least eco-friendly options.

Gas Grills: Gas grills, typically fueled by propane or natural gas, are more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly than charcoal grills. They produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions and air pollutants. However, the environmental impact depends on the source of the gas. Propane sourced from renewable sources or natural gas derived from cleaner production methods can make gas grilling even more eco-friendly.

Electric Grills: Electric grills are known for their energy efficiency. They generate fewer emissions and pollutants than both charcoal and gas grills. They also have the advantage of heating up quickly and maintaining a consistent temperature. If you're looking for a grill with a minimal carbon footprint, electric grills are a strong contender.

Now that we've explored the environmental impact of different grill types, let's delve into why choosing an energy-efficient grill is crucial in our quest to reduce carbon emissions.

Selecting an energy-efficient grill is a key step in reducing your carbon footprint while grilling. Here's why:

1. Lower Energy Consumption: Energy-efficient grills are designed to use less energy while delivering excellent grilling results. They heat up quickly and maintain a consistent temperature, which means you use less energy during your cooking sessions. This directly translates to fewer carbon emissions associated with energy production.

2. Reduced Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Energy-efficient grills, particularly electric and high-efficiency gas grills, produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions during operation. This is crucial for mitigating climate change since fewer emissions mean a smaller carbon footprint.

3. Long-Term Savings: Energy-efficient grills often cost less to operate in the long run. You'll not only reduce your environmental impact but also save on utility bills, making it a win-win situation for both your wallet and the planet.

Choosing the right grill that aligns with your grilling needs and environmental values is essential. Here are some tips to help you select an eco-friendly grill:

1. Research Grill Models: Investigate various grill models and their energy efficiency ratings. Look for those that are certified by organizations like Energy Star or endorsed as eco-friendly by reputable sources.

2. Consider Fuel Sources: If you prefer gas grills, opt for propane sourced from renewable or sustainable sources. If you choose electric grills, ensure they have a high energy efficiency rating.

3. Size Matters: Select a grill size that matches your typical cooking needs. Larger grills consume more energy, so avoid over-sizing if you don't require a massive cooking area.

4. Read Reviews: Check online reviews and seek recommendations from fellow eco-conscious grillers. Real-world experiences can provide valuable insights into the grill's performance and eco-friendliness.

5. Maintenance and Durability: Choose a grill that's durable and easy to maintain. A longer-lasting grill reduces the need for replacements, which can generate additional waste.

By following these tips, you can find a grill that not only suits your grilling preferences but also contributes to a greener, more sustainable world. In the next sections of our blog, we'll explore more ways to reduce your carbon footprint while enjoying your favorite grilled dishes.

Opt for Sustainable Fuel Sources

When it comes to grilling, the type of fuel you use has a significant impact on your carbon footprint and the environment. Let's explore the environmental implications of three common grill fuel sources: charcoal, propane, and natural gas.

Charcoal: Charcoal is a popular fuel source for grilling, but its production has a notable environmental impact. The process involves cutting down trees, leading to deforestation and habitat loss. Moreover, the carbon emissions released when charcoal is burned contribute to air pollution and climate change. Overall, charcoal is one of the least eco-friendly fuel options.

Propane: Propane is a cleaner-burning fuel compared to charcoal. It produces fewer greenhouse gas emissions and air pollutants when burned. However, the environmental impact of propane depends on its source. Conventional propane comes from fossil fuels, but sustainable alternatives are available, such as propane derived from renewable sources like biogas or biomass. Choosing sustainably sourced propane can significantly reduce your carbon footprint.

Natural Gas: Natural gas is another cleaner-burning option for grilling. It produces fewer emissions than charcoal and is readily available through pipelines. Similar to propane, the environmental impact of natural gas depends on its source. Using natural gas derived from renewable or cleaner production methods can make it a more sustainable choice.

Now, let's delve into why opting for sustainable fuel sources, like renewable propane, can be beneficial for the environment and your eco-friendly grilling journey.

Choosing sustainable fuel sources for your grill, such as propane made from renewable sources, offers several significant advantages:

1. Reduced Carbon Emissions: Sustainable propane emits fewer greenhouse gases during combustion compared to traditional charcoal. This helps mitigate climate change and reduce your overall carbon footprint.

2. Conservation of Resources: Using renewable propane decreases our reliance on fossil fuels and helps conserve natural resources. It promotes the use of organic materials and waste products to generate fuel, reducing the need for new extraction.

3. Improved Air Quality: Sustainable propane produces fewer harmful pollutants, leading to better air quality in your immediate grilling area and beyond. This benefits both your health and the environment.

4. Environmental Responsibility: By choosing sustainable fuel sources, you actively support environmentally responsible practices and encourage the development of cleaner alternatives within the grilling industry.

Sourcing and using sustainable fuels for grilling can be a rewarding step towards reducing your carbon footprint. Here are some tips to help you make eco-friendly choices:

1. Research Suppliers: Look for propane suppliers that offer sustainably sourced propane made from renewable sources like biogas or biomass. Research the sustainability practices of companies to ensure your fuel choice aligns with your values.

2. Check Certifications: Seek out certifications or labels that indicate the sustainability of the fuel source. These certifications can provide assurance that the fuel meets eco-friendly standards.

3. Educate Yourself: Understand the process of sustainable fuel production and its benefits. Knowledge empowers you to make informed decisions when selecting fuel for your grill.

4. Practice Efficient Grilling: Regardless of the fuel source, efficient grilling techniques, such as proper preheating and temperature control, can help reduce fuel consumption and environmental impact.

5. Promote Sustainability: Share your commitment to sustainable grilling with friends and family. Encourage them to make eco-friendly fuel choices as well.

By choosing sustainable fuel sources for your grill, you can enjoy the pleasures of grilling while minimizing your impact on the environment. It's a small change that can make a big difference in reducing your carbon footprint while savoring delicious grilled meals.

Reduce Meat Consumption

Meat production, particularly beef and lamb, has a significant and well-documented impact on carbon emissions. Here's how the process contributes to greenhouse gases:

1. Methane Emissions: Ruminant animals, like cows and sheep, produce methane during digestion through a process called enteric fermentation. Methane is a potent greenhouse gas that traps heat in the atmosphere far more effectively than carbon dioxide (CO2). The belching and flatulence of these animals release substantial amounts of methane, making livestock one of the largest methane sources worldwide.

2. Land Use and Deforestation: The livestock industry drives deforestation to create space for grazing and to cultivate animal feed crops. Trees act as carbon sinks, absorbing CO2 from the atmosphere. When forests are cleared for agriculture, this stored carbon is released back into the atmosphere. Additionally, clearing land for livestock contributes to soil degradation and loss of biodiversity.

3. Energy and Water Use: Meat production consumes vast amounts of energy and water. From operating machinery on farms to processing and transporting meat products, this industry relies heavily on fossil fuels. Moreover, water is required for animal hydration and crop irrigation, leading to significant water use and potential pollution.

4. Manure Management: Handling and disposing of animal waste can result in the release of methane and nitrous oxide, both potent greenhouse gases.

In summary, the carbon emissions associated with meat production stem from methane emissions by livestock, land use changes, energy and water consumption, and the management of animal waste. Recognizing these impacts is crucial for making informed choices to reduce our carbon footprint while grilling.

Grilling doesn't have to revolve solely around meat; there are plenty of delicious and eco-friendly alternatives to explore:

1. Plant-Based Burgers: Plant-based burgers have taken the grilling world by storm. These patties, often made from ingredients like soy, mushrooms, and peas, provide the same mouthwatering flavors and textures as traditional meat burgers but with a significantly lower carbon footprint. Brands like Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods offer tasty options.

2. Vegetables: Grilling vegetables is not only eco-friendly but also a fantastic way to add color and flavor to your grill. Bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, mushrooms, and asparagus are just a few examples of veggies that grill beautifully. Simply brush them with olive oil, sprinkle with seasonings, and grill until tender and slightly charred.

3. Tofu and Tempeh: Tofu and tempeh are plant-based protein sources that take on smoky grill flavors wonderfully. Marinate them in your favorite sauces or spices before grilling for added depth of flavor.

4. Seafood: Consider seafood options like shrimp, salmon, or even plant-based seafood alternatives if you're looking for a lighter, ocean-friendly grilling choice.

5. Grilled Fruit: Don't forget dessert! Grilled fruit, like pineapple, peaches, or watermelon, can be a delightful and unexpected treat to end your meal.

While enjoying the mouthwatering flavors of grilled meat is a beloved tradition, it's essential to recognize the environmental impact of meat production and consumption. Encourage your readers to consider the benefits of meatless grilling occasionally:

1. Reduce Carbon Footprint: Opting for plant-based grilling options significantly lowers carbon emissions compared to grilling meat. It's a simple yet effective way to reduce one's carbon footprint.

2. Health Benefits: Meatless grilling can be a healthier choice, as it often means consuming less saturated fat and cholesterol while increasing fiber and nutrient intake from plant-based options.

3. Culinary Exploration: Trying new grilling recipes with vegetables, plant-based proteins, and fruits can be a fun culinary adventure. It allows for creativity and the discovery of unique flavors and textures.

4. Support Sustainable Practices: Supporting the growing market for plant-based and sustainable foods encourages more eco-friendly practices in the food industry, benefiting both consumers and the environment.

5. Balanced Diet: Incorporating meatless grilling into your routine promotes a more balanced and diverse diet, which can be beneficial for overall health.

In conclusion, while enjoying the occasional meatless grilling session may seem like a small step, it can have a meaningful impact on reducing carbon emissions, promoting sustainability, and exploring a world of delicious, eco-friendly flavors on your grill.

Plan Efficient Grilling Sessions

One often overlooked aspect of reducing your carbon footprint while grilling is the significance of preheating and cooking efficiently. These practices not only save time and energy but also contribute to a more eco-friendly grilling experience.

Preheating: Preheating your grill is more than just a step to ensure even cooking; it's about efficiency. By allowing your grill to reach the desired cooking temperature before placing your food on the grates, you reduce the overall cooking time. This means less energy consumption and fewer emissions. So, let's remember that patience pays off – wait for your grill to be properly preheated before you start cooking.

Efficient Cooking: Grilling efficiently involves managing your cooking time and temperatures wisely. Overcooking not only affects the taste and texture of your food but also wastes energy. Use a timer to avoid leaving food on the grill longer than necessary, and practice temperature control to prevent excessive heat. For example, you can use indirect grilling for slower, more energy-efficient cooking of larger cuts of meat.

Efficiency in grilling not only conserves energy but also enhances your grilling experience. Here are some grilling tips to help you minimize cooking time and energy usage:

1. Organize Your Grill Space: Plan your grill layout to maximize efficiency. Arrange hotter and cooler zones on your grill by positioning coals or burners accordingly. This way, you can move food to lower heat areas to finish cooking if needed, reducing overall cooking time.

2. Use the Lid: Keep the grill lid closed as much as possible. This helps trap heat and cooks your food faster. Open the lid only when necessary to flip, turn, or baste your items.

3. Invest in Grill Thermometers: Temperature control is key to efficient grilling. Invest in a grill thermometer to monitor cooking temperatures accurately. This prevents overheating and reduces the need for frequent adjustments.

4. Consider Thin Cuts: Opt for thinner cuts of meat or vegetables when possible. They cook faster and require less energy. Plus, they're often easier to grill evenly.

5. Use Grill Baskets and Skewers: Grill baskets and skewers are excellent tools for efficient cooking. They allow you to cook smaller or delicate items without the risk of them falling through the grates.

6. Don't Peek Too Often: As tempting as it may be to check on your food frequently, resist the urge to peek too often. Every time you open the grill, heat escapes, and cooking time increases.

7. Rest Your Meat: After grilling, let your meat rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making your meal juicier and reducing the temptation to overcook.

Another way to make your grilling more eco-friendly is by using grill covers. Grill covers serve as a simple yet effective tool to retain heat and reduce energy consumption in several ways:

1. Heat Retention: A grill cover acts as a barrier that prevents heat from escaping. This means your grill maintains its temperature more efficiently, reducing the need to use extra energy to maintain cooking temperatures.

2. Faster Preheating: With a grill cover in place, your grill preheats faster, which translates to less waiting time and energy consumption before you start cooking.

3. Weather Protection: Grill covers also shield your grill from the elements, preventing rust and damage. A well-maintained grill operates more efficiently and has a longer lifespan, reducing the need for replacements.

4. Less Charcoal or Gas Consumption: With the help of a grill cover, you'll find that you need to use less charcoal or gas to achieve and maintain your desired cooking temperature.

By emphasizing preheating, efficient cooking techniques, and the use of grill covers, you can make your grilling experience not only more eco-friendly but also more enjoyable. These practices save energy, reduce carbon emissions, and help you savor the flavors of your grilled creations with a clear conscience.

Use Eco-Friendly Accessories

Grilling isn't just about the grill itself; it's also about the tools and accessories you use. To reduce your carbon footprint while grilling, consider these eco-friendly options for accessories and utensils:

1. Bamboo Skewers: Instead of disposable wooden or plastic skewers, opt for reusable bamboo skewers. They are durable, easy to clean, and much more sustainable.

2. Stainless Steel Grill Baskets: Grill baskets made of stainless steel are long-lasting and can be used for grilling delicate items like vegetables and fish without the need for aluminum foil.

3. Silicone Basting Brushes: Traditional basting brushes often shed bristles and need frequent replacement. Silicone basting brushes are durable, easy to clean, and can last for many grilling seasons.

4. Grilling Tongs: Choose grilling tongs made from stainless steel. They are sturdy, heat-resistant, and will last for years without rusting or degrading.

5. Reusable Grill Mats: Instead of disposable aluminum foil, use reusable grill mats made from non-stick, heat-resistant materials. They prevent food from sticking to the grates and reduce the need for oil.

6. Grill Covers: A grill cover not only helps retain heat but also protects your grill from the elements, extending its lifespan and reducing waste.

Disposable plates, utensils, and aluminum foil may seem convenient, but they come with significant environmental drawbacks:

1. Single-Use Waste: Disposable plates, utensils, and aluminum foil are designed for single-use, leading to substantial amounts of waste. They contribute to landfill overflow and environmental degradation.

2. Resource Depletion: The production of disposable items consumes valuable resources, such as water, energy, and raw materials. This contributes to resource depletion and an increased carbon footprint.

3. Pollution: The manufacturing processes of disposable items can release pollutants into the air and water, further harming the environment.

4. Landfill Impact: Disposable items often end up in landfills, where they can take hundreds of years to decompose fully. During decomposition, they release harmful chemicals into the soil and water.

5. Carbon Emissions: The production, transportation, and disposal of disposable items generate carbon emissions, contributing to climate change.

Reducing the environmental impact of grilling accessories and utensils is within reach. Encourage the use of reusable or biodegradable options to make a positive difference:

1. Reusable Dinnerware: Choose reusable plates, utensils, and cups made from materials like bamboo, stainless steel, or durable plastics. They can be used repeatedly, reducing waste and resource consumption.

2. Cloth Napkins: Opt for cloth napkins instead of disposable paper ones. They are washable and can be used for countless meals.

3. Biodegradable Alternatives: If disposables are necessary, look for biodegradable options made from materials like cornstarch or sugarcane. These items break down more quickly in landfills and are a better choice for the environment.

4. Reduce Aluminum Foil Use: Minimize the use of aluminum foil by employing reusable grill mats or grill baskets made from sustainable materials.

By recommending eco-friendly grilling accessories and utensils and discussing the environmental impact of disposable items, you can help your readers make more informed choices that reduce their carbon footprint while enjoying the pleasures of grilling.

Proper Maintenance

Maintaining your grill isn't just about ensuring it performs at its best; it also has significant environmental benefits. Regular maintenance can help extend the lifespan of your grill, reducing the need for frequent replacements and ultimately minimizing waste. Here's how it works:

1. Prevents Corrosion: Regular cleaning and maintenance help prevent rust and corrosion on the grill's surfaces. This extends the life of the grill's body and grates, reducing the likelihood of needing to replace these components.

2. Efficient Functioning: A well-maintained grill operates more efficiently. It reaches and maintains the desired cooking temperatures with ease, reducing the need for excessive fuel or energy consumption.

3. Reduces Parts Replacement: Neglected grills often require replacement parts, which can contribute to waste. By cleaning and servicing your grill, you can avoid the need for costly repairs or replacements.

4. Aesthetic Appeal: Regular cleaning and maintenance keep your grill looking good, which can make you less inclined to replace it prematurely based on appearance alone.

Proper maintenance is the key to extending your grill's lifespan and reducing waste. Here's a schedule and some essential tips to keep your grill in top shape:

Monthly Maintenance:

Clean the Grates: After each use, brush the grates with a grill brush to remove residue and food particles. This prevents buildup that can lead to rust.

Empty Grease Trays: Empty and clean grease trays to prevent flare-ups and reduce the risk of fire.

Quarterly Maintenance:

Deep Clean: Give your grill a deep cleaning every three months. This includes cleaning the burner tubes, checking for any blockages, and cleaning the interior thoroughly.

Inspect Hoses and Connections: Examine the gas hoses and connections for any signs of wear, damage, or leaks. Replace any parts that show signs of deterioration.

Check Ignition System: Ensure the ignition system is functioning correctly. Clean or replace the igniter if necessary.

Annually Maintenance:

Inspect Burners: Check the burners for any clogs or damage. Replace any corroded or damaged burners to maintain even heat distribution.

Inspect Grill Structure: Examine the grill's body and frame for signs of rust or deterioration. If necessary, repaint or apply a high-heat-resistant coating to prevent further corrosion.

Replace Parts as Needed: Replace any worn or damaged parts, such as grates, warming racks, or cooking surfaces. This can extend the grill's lifespan significantly.

When it's time to say goodbye to your old grill or its parts, recycling is an eco-friendly option that prevents them from ending up in landfills. Here's why recycling old grills and grill parts is important:

1. Environmental Conservation: Recycling metal parts of grills, like stainless steel, reduces the need for mining new raw materials. This helps conserve natural resources and reduces the energy required for manufacturing.

2. Waste Reduction: Recycling old grills or parts reduces waste in landfills, which can take centuries to decompose. By recycling, you contribute to reducing landfill waste and environmental pollution.

3. Energy Savings: Recycling metals uses significantly less energy than extracting and refining new materials. This reduces the carbon footprint associated with manufacturing processes.

4. Sustainable Practices: Emphasize the importance of adopting sustainable practices in the grilling community. Recycling old grills and parts is a small yet meaningful step towards a greener world.

In conclusion, maintaining your grill, following a regular cleaning and servicing schedule, and recycling old grills or parts are essential practices that not only extend the life of your grill but also contribute to waste reduction and environmental conservation. These actions align with responsible and eco-conscious grilling, making your outdoor cooking experiences both enjoyable and eco-friendly.

Offset Your Carbon Emissions

Carbon offsetting is a concept that allows individuals and organizations to take responsibility for their carbon emissions by investing in projects that reduce or capture an equivalent amount of greenhouse gases from the atmosphere. In essence, it's a way to balance out the emissions you produce with actions that mitigate or remove an equivalent amount of CO2 or other greenhouse gases, thus "offsetting" your carbon footprint.

Carbon offset projects can take various forms, such as reforestation efforts, renewable energy projects, methane capture from landfills, and energy efficiency initiatives. The idea is that by supporting these projects, you help counterbalance the emissions you generate through activities like grilling, driving, or flying, making your overall environmental impact neutral or even positive.

Several organizations and programs enable individuals to participate in carbon offsetting efforts. These organizations work with various projects aimed at reducing or capturing greenhouse gas emissions. Here are a few notable ones:

1. CarbonFund.org: CarbonFund.org offers a range of carbon offset options, including supporting renewable energy projects, reforestation, and methane capture initiatives. They provide a carbon footprint calculator to help individuals estimate their emissions and choose suitable offset projects.

2. TerraPass: TerraPass specializes in carbon offsetting for individuals and businesses. They offer offset options for various activities, from driving and flying to household energy use. TerraPass invests in projects that reduce emissions and promote sustainable practices.

3. Cool Effect: Cool Effect focuses on providing support for projects that directly address global warming. They offer a wide range of projects to support, including renewable energy, forest conservation, and methane reduction.

4. NativeEnergy: NativeEnergy offers carbon offset programs that support renewable energy projects, family farm methane capture, and more. They emphasize the importance of addressing both carbon reduction and social impact.

5. The Gold Standard: The Gold Standard is a rigorous certification standard for carbon offset projects. They certify projects that meet high environmental and social standards, ensuring that your offsets have a meaningful impact.

As eco-conscious individuals who enjoy grilling, it's important to consider the environmental impact of our actions and seek ways to reduce it. Carbon offsetting is a powerful tool that allows us to take responsibility for our carbon emissions. Here's why readers should consider incorporating carbon offsetting into their grilling habits:

1. Accountability: Carbon offsetting is a tangible way to take accountability for the carbon emissions associated with grilling. It allows you to balance out your impact and contribute to global efforts to combat climate change.

2. Support for Sustainable Projects: By participating in carbon offset programs, you support sustainable projects that make a positive environmental difference. Your contributions go towards initiatives that reduce emissions, conserve forests, and promote renewable energy.

3. Environmental Stewardship: Carbon offsetting demonstrates your commitment to environmental stewardship and responsible grilling practices. It's a step towards a more eco-friendly and sustainable lifestyle.

4. Inspiring Change: When you offset your emissions and share your experiences with others, you inspire a ripple effect of positive change. Encourage your friends and family to join you in offsetting their carbon emissions, creating a collective impact.

5. Grilling with a Purpose: Grilling can be more than just a culinary experience; it can be an opportunity to make a difference. By incorporating carbon offsetting into your grilling habits, you turn a beloved pastime into a meaningful act of environmental responsibility.

In conclusion, carbon offsetting is a valuable tool that allows individuals to reduce their carbon footprint while enjoying the pleasures of grilling. It's a way to grill with a purpose, aligning your love for outdoor cooking with a commitment to environmental sustainability.

Conclusion

Grilling is more than just a culinary delight; it's an opportunity to make a positive change for the planet. In this blog post, we'll explore eco-friendly grilling strategies that enhance your grilling experience while benefiting the environment.

Choose the Right Grill:

The type of grill you use can significantly impact its environmental footprint. Charcoal grills, while beloved, contribute to deforestation and air pollution. Gas grills, especially when fueled by renewable propane or natural gas, are more eco-friendly. Electric grills, known for their energy efficiency, are a green choice.

Why Energy-Efficient Grills Matter:

Lower Energy Consumption: Energy-efficient grills use less energy, reducing carbon emissions.

Reduced Greenhouse Gas Emissions: High-efficiency grills produce fewer emissions during operation.

Long-Term Savings: Energy-efficient grills save on utility bills and benefit the environment.

Tips for Choosing an Eco-Friendly Grill:

Research Models: Look for energy-efficient grill models certified by reputable organizations.

Consider Fuel Sources: Choose sustainable propane or energy-efficient electric grills.

Right Size: Select a grill size that matches your needs to avoid excessive energy usage.

Read Reviews: Seek recommendations from eco-conscious grillers.

Choosing an energy-efficient grill aligns with your values and reduces your carbon footprint. In our blog, we'll explore more ways to make your grilling eco-conscious.

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