Small Steps make Big Changes

Did you know that gas powered lawn mowers emit just as much volatile organic compounds and nitrogen oxides (ingredients for smog) in one hour as 11 new cars being driven for one hour? It can be easy to overlook the many small things that can make a big contribution to pollution. Luckily, even small changes such as switching to electric or manual tools can also make a big impact on pollution and waste. 

According to the EPA, over 17 million gallons of fuel are spilled each year while refueling lawn equipment, more than was was spilled by the Exxon Valdez. It can seem insignificant when a bit of gas doesn’t make it into your lawn equipment but on the ground instead. Yet if all of the estimated 54 million Americans who mow their lawn every Saturday were to spill even a teaspoon; it can add up quickly. Refueling with precision is a small effort that can make a big difference. Lawn mowers aren’t the only piece of gas powered equipment used to beautify the lawn but wreaks havoc on the environment. Chain saws, leaf blowers, weed whackers, and any other equipment that runs on gasoline can increase ground level ozone, a toxic gas, that is not only harmful to our own respiratory health but can also inhibit plant growth. There are many small steps each person can take to help reduce damages to our environment. 

Small steps lead to big changes.

Learn about energy efficient mowers, and consider taking the step.