The Environmental Impact of Over-Application in Landscaping
In the quest for lush, green lawns and vibrant gardens, landscape companies often turn to fertilizers and pesticides. While these products can boost plant growth and ward off pests, their overuse has significant environmental repercussions. The effluent produced from excess application doesn't always stay put; much of it is washed away, leading to a cascade of ecological issues.
The Problem with Runoff
When rain falls on landscapes treated with high levels of fertilizers and pesticides, it doesn't just water the plants. It also creates runoff, carrying these chemicals into our waterways. This runoff is a major source of pollution, contributing to the eutrophication of rivers, lakes, and oceans. Nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus, which are abundant in fertilizers, fuel the growth of algae blooms that deplete oxygen in the water, creating dead zones where aquatic life cannot survive¹.
The Risks of Chemicals in Our Environment
The chemicals in many pesticides have been linked to a range of health issues in both wildlife and humans. For instance, the herbicide 2,4-D, commonly used in lawn care, is considered toxic and has been associated with liver problems and nerve damage after long-term exposure². Moreover, the presence of these chemicals in our water supply raises concerns about their potential impact on human health, particularly as they relate to endocrine disruption and carcinogenicity².
According to Drugwatch.com there are many lawsuits across the world investigating the impacts of Glyphosate on health. The active ingredient in many herbicide sprays, i.e. Roundup, has been the subject of many lawsuits asserting that the chemical has caused many ailments including non-Hodgkin lymphoma. While some settlements have been awarded to people claiming injuries from glyphosate other juries have not felt the link was substantial enough. There is also substantial damage to the environment from rampant herbicide damage. More information about glyphosate damage and alternatives visit https://www.drugwatch.com/roundup/alternatives/
Sustainable Alternatives
Fortunately, there are sustainable practices that landscape companies can adopt to minimize their environmental footprint. Using native plants that are adapted to local conditions can reduce the need for watering and chemical treatments. Additionally, implementing rain gardens and other stormwater management techniques can help absorb runoff and prevent the discharge of pollutants into waterways¹.
Educating for Change
To effect change, it's crucial to educate both landscape professionals and the public about the consequences of overusing fertilizers and pesticides. By understanding the environmental impact of their choices and learning about sustainable alternatives, property owners can make informed decisions that benefit the planet¹.
Conclusion
The responsibility to protect our environment lies with all of us, including landscape companies. By rethinking our approach to lawn care and landscaping, we can reduce the effluent produced and help preserve our precious water resources for future generations.
This blog post highlights the importance of responsible landscaping practices and the need for a shift towards more sustainable methods. By being mindful of the amounts and types of chemicals used, we can significantly reduce the negative impact on our environment.
Sources:
(1) Landscaping and Lawn Care - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. https://www.epa.gov/system/files/documents/2023-01/bmp-landscaping-and-lawn-care.pdf.
(2) How to avoid greenwashing and harmful pesticides in lawn care. https://www.ehn.org/pesticide-free-lawn-care-2654774400.html.
(3) Fertilizers Compatible with Organic Landscape Management. https://beyondpesticides.org/resources/lawns-and-landscapes/tools-for-change/fcwolm.
(4) Benefits and Risks Associated with Landscapes | US EPA. https://www.epa.gov/pesp/benefits-and-risks-associated-landscapes.
(5) Alternatives to using Glyphosate herbicide
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