Ask Audubon: Ecological Lawn Tips

Reprinted From Audubon Newswire

What are some ecological tips for trimming my lawn? -- Submitted by Nancy D. of Toledo, OH.

Is the grass greener on the other side? Not if you use ecological lawn care methods. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), over 54 million American homeowners use gas powered lawn mowers, which cause as much as five percent of the nation's air pollution, as well as contribute to global warming. Lawn mowers are not currently equipped with catalytic converters, as are cars, and therefore contribute a disproportionately high amount of pollution to the environment. A 2001 Swedish study concluded that air pollution from an hour of grass cutting with a gasoline powered lawn mower is about the same as that from a 100-mile automobile ride. Roger Westerholm, Ph.D., of Stockholm University states that these emissions can be reduced by more than 80 percent using a catalytic converter like those used in automobiles.

Stricter emissions standards for lawn mowers will be a future reality. As of this year, California is requiring newly manufactured lawn mowers and other small engine devices to have catalytic converters. In addition, many concerned homeowners are switching to electric lawn mowers, which can be either corded or cordless. Electric mowers are quieter and need less routine maintenance than gas mowers. For corded mowers it is important to use an electricity supplier that minimizes environmental pollution. Vendors in some states such as California, Washington, Arizona, Pennsylvania and Maryland are offering rebate programs, where a gasoline powered mower can be turned in for a rebate on an electric one. Alternative fuel lawn mowers are in the works. The Toro Co. has developed a mower which can utilize 20 percent vegetable oil and 80 percent petroleum, (B-20) and expect models that run on pure biodiesel fuel to be available by 2009.

See http://www.audubon.org/bird/at_home/Healthy_Yard.html for more advice on creating a healthy backyard. By following these tips, the grass will truly be greener in your yard.

Submit your questions about consumer choices and how they affect the environment to Cynthia Blayer at cblayer@audubon.org.