The government is expected to issue a statement responding to a petition that demands a UK-wide ban on disposable BBQs. The petition, launched on July 15, reached 10,000 signatures on Wednesday, July 29, triggering a mandatory written response.
Created by Marissa Pysarczuk on behalf of Business Waste Ltd, the petition reads: "We want the Government to introduce a nationwide ban on the sale of single-use disposable barbecues. Disposable BBQs are increasingly linked to preventable wildfires, which poses a serious risk to public safety, wildlife, and emergency services."
Environmental and Fire Concerns
The petition adds: "Also, disposable BBQs contribute to unnecessary waste. With increasing pressure on waste management systems and growing climate-related fire risk, we believe action is needed to reduce avoidable harm caused by these products."
It asks the government to consider a UK-wide sales ban, promote safer reusable alternatives, and work with retailers to phase out single-use outdoor cooking products.
Supermarket Action and Online Sales
Business Waste Ltd's website notes: "While several supermarkets stopped selling disposable BBQs in 2022, they remain available through some retailers and online marketplaces." Aldi removed them from UK stores, eliminating around 35 tonnes of single-use packaging waste. Waitrose also stopped sales, and other major supermarkets paused or removed them during wildfire risk periods.
The site states: "That showed retailers can act. But without a UK-wide ban, availability remains inconsistent. Consumers can still find these products, especially online, which weakens local fire prevention campaigns and creates confusion about whether disposable BBQs are safe or acceptable to use."
Wildfire Context and Drought
The petition comes as several major wildfires have burned across the UK, including at moorlands near Dovestone Reservoir in Saddleworth. Experts urge people to avoid using anything outdoors that could cause sparks.
Earlier in July, a National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) spokesperson said: "When the weather stays hot and dry, it only takes one spark to start a wildfire. What can begin as a small fire can spread incredibly quickly, putting people, homes, wildlife and our countryside at risk. We’re asking everyone to take extra care outdoors, whether that’s avoiding disposable barbecues in the countryside, parks or moorlands, or making sure cigarettes are fully extinguished. A few simple actions can make a huge difference and help prevent fires before they start."
Half of England is now in a drought, according to the Environment Agency, due to a prolonged dry period that increases wildfire risk.
If the petition reaches 100,000 signatures, the government will consider debating the topic in Parliament.
