Charcoal and Ash Put in Garbage/Landfill Special Instructions Use extreme caution! Let cool for several hours and then scoop fireplace, stove and barbecue ash into a metal container with tight fitting lid. Put the container outdoors and 10 feet or more away from structures and combustibles. If needed, add water to speed the cooling process. Once totally cool, ashes must be contained in a bag, box or can to prevent a messy spill during collection. Place contained ash in the garbage. For more information and additional fire safety tips, visit CalFire, US Fire Administration, and National Fire Protection Association. Throw the Bag Away Most charcoal bags are paper lined with plastic. Recycling facilities cannot separate the two materials, so bags must be disposed of in the garbage. Ways to Reduce Grill With Propane Instead Propane grills are a more eco-friendly option than charcoal grills. Ways to Reuse Used Charcoal Is Fertilizer If your used charcoal is additive-free, you can use it to fertilize plants. It is alkaline and contains the nutrient potash. Avoid using it with plants that require more acidity (e.g., hydrangeas and azaleas), as well as new seedlings. Repurpose Unused Charcoal Around the House If your unused charcoal is additive-free, use it to neutralize odors, prevent metal from rusting, or balance nutrients in potted plants, garden beds and compost piles. For more inspiration, check out these ideas from This Old House.