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Cut It Out
Your commute to work isn't the only time you create emissions; the journey across your lawn and back behind the four wheels of your lawnmower also has an environmental impact.
The Environmental Protection Agency has issued new regulations that will require a 35% reduction in emissions in new lawn
equipment by 2011. The regulations will also affect emissions from recreational watercraft by 2010.
"The emissions of these sources are huge, accounting for about a quarter of smog-forming emissions and carbon monoxide from the motor vehicle sector," National Association of Clean Air Agencies executive director Bill Becker said in a statement. "When fully implemented, this rule will be the air pollution equivalent of removing one out of every five cars and trucks on the road."
We're glad to hear about such a huge step, but what can be done in the mean time? Well, if you've got the energy, you can always switch over to an old-fashioned push mower, which will allow you to burn some calories as you maintain your lawn. Also, you can cut back on grass all together and xeriscape your lawn.
Would you buy different lawn equipment if you knew it would help you have a greener home?
If I had the money, I would absolutely invest in an entirely green home, complete with appliances, food, etc. that helped the earth stay healthy. Given the state our Earth is in, who wouldn't?! But because this may not be possible for everyone,I think it is important that we work to do the best we can for the time being. A push mower is an option -- it's quite the workout, but it's an option. In addition, just cutting back on total emissions -- whether it be car use or doing the laundry -- are important steps in becoming more eco-friendly.
I would absolutely change my lawn equipment if it meant saving the planet! We should do anything it takes!