MARYLAND - A recent study from the Maryland Public Interest Research Group (PIRG) is raising concerns about the environmental and health impacts of gas-powered lawn care equipment. The study claims that machines such as mowers and leaf blowers emit significant pollution, with some producing as much pollution in an hour as driving hundreds of miles in a car.
Data from the study, conducted by Maryland PIRG, reveals that in 2021, lawn care equipment contributed to the production of 30 million tons of carbon dioxide, exceeding the entire carbon footprint of the city of Los Angeles.
Beyond the environmental impact, the study highlights that the use of such equipment in residential neighborhoods poses risks to public health, as the emissions are released where people live and breathe.
In response to these findings, some individuals are already making the switch to electric lawn care equipment. Residents like Jam Pluto says he's already made the switch to electric-powered tools.
"Yeah, I think electric is the future, that’s the best way to go. I mean, emissions from stuff like power tools, tractors, and other equipment out there. Most of what I buy is electric now," says Pluto.
The study also draws attention to the potential health risks associated with gas-powered equipment used in close proximity to homes. For instance, the emissions from a leaf blower used for just one hour are said to be equivalent to 15 cars driving through a neighborhood.
New homeowners, such as Kimberly McGurk in Salisbury, are considering more sustainable options for their lawn care needs.
"I’ve been interested in an electric vehicle, but as a homeowner, I have been looking into lawn care as well. I think if they improve things like the battery life of the lawn care, I would be interested in it for sure," says McGurk.
Maryland PIRG says Electric Lawn care often has a higher price tag, but usually pays back the initial investment in one to three years.
You can read the full study here