Greensward Wars: An environmental disaster?

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Greensward Wars: An environmental disaster?
by Vani Miglani \| 20-02-2023 15:29 0
The American dream of owning a home with a pristine, green lawn has been engrained in our culture for decades. However, as we become more aware of the negative impacts of lawns on the environment, it’s time to reconsider this ideal. While lawns may look nice, their impact on the planet is not so pretty. One of the most pressing issues associated with lawns is the use of pesticides and fertilizers. These chemicals are commonly used to keep lawns looking lush and green, but they can cause harm to the environment. Fertilizers can run off into waterways and contribute to algal blooms, which can lead to oxygen depletion and harm aquatic life. Pesticides, on the other hand, can harm beneficial insects and wildlife, which can have a ripple effect on the ecosystem. Another major issue is the amount of water required to maintain lawns. In some parts of the country, watering lawns accounts for a significant portion of household water use. This not only puts a strain on water resources, but also contributes to water waste, as sprinklers and irrigation systems often spray water onto sidewalks and driveways instead of the lawn. Lawns also contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. The use of gas-powered lawn mowers and other lawn care equipment can produce emissions that contribute to air pollution and climate change. Furthermore, lawns can contribute to habitat destruction and loss of biodiversity. Many species of plants and animals that are native to a particular region are displaced by lawns, which often consist of non-native grass species. This can have a ripple effect on the ecosystem as certain animals and insects may rely on native plant species for food and habitat. While these environmental impacts of lawns are concerning, there are solutions that can help mitigate the negative effects. One such solution is to switch to organic lawn care methods, which rely on natural fertilizers and pest control methods. Replacing traditional lawns with native plant gardens or permeable paving is yet another alternative that can help reduce water usage and support biodiversity. It’s time that we ditch the ideal of the perfect green lawn and embrace a more sustainable future embracing such simple practices! References: 1. "The Environmental Impact of Lawns." The Spruce, https://www.thespruce.com/the-environmental-impact-of-lawns-2131055 2. “Going Native: Urban Landscaping for Wildlife with Native Plants." National Wildlife Federation, https://www.nwf.org/-/media/PDFs/Garden-for-Wildlife/GFW_Native_Plant_Guide.ashx.

Youth Vani Miglani