Lawnmowers and pollution
Are you one of the 54 million people in the United States who mow their lawns each weekend? The EPA says lawn mowing with gas powered mowers results in 5 percent of the the nations air pollution - more in large cities and suburbs.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, a conventional lawn mower pollutes as much in an hour as driving a car 100 miles. Gas powered lawn mowers emits high levels of carbon monoxide. They also contribute to ground level ozone by producing large amounts of volatile organic compounds and nitrogen oxide, especially in summer, when ozone levels are already high. Ozone causes problem for people who have asthma and can aggravate other respiratory diseases. Children who play outdoors in the summer are especially vulnerable to high ozone levels.
Another problem with conventional lawn mowers is fuel spills. The EPA says that 17 million gallons of fuel are spilled each year while refueling lawn equipment. That's more than all the oil spilled in the Gulf of Alaska by the Exxon Valdez.
Consider alternatives to using the gas powered mower. Check out ways of landscaping to reduce the amount of grass you need to mow. In addition to requiring mowing, turf lawns need more water than other types of landscape. Using native trees, shrubs and groundcover can add beauty, keep soil healthy and intact as well as conserve water.
For lawns that require mowing, get your exercise while you mow your lawn with a people powered mower that has no motor or try a battery powered mower. Check into rebates offered this spring for trading in your gas mower for a new electric mower.