Yesterday, the annoying backyard roar told me “It’s leaf blower season again.” The environmentally unsound, intrusive machines deprive manual laborers of earnings. We’d be better off if we brought out some rakes and did it the old way in the fresh air.
by David Stone
The Roosevelt Island Daily News
Leaf blowers can be a pain point. Even the name is wrong because we see them blowing everything: hedge trimmings, mowed grass, dust and even accumulated water. Each time, it’s disturbing and intrusive.
Here’s a breakdown of our thoughts and some greener alternatives:
The Downside of Leaf Blowers:
- Noise pollution: Those roaring engines can be disruptive to you and your neighbors.
- Air pollution: Gas-powered blowers contribute to smog and greenhouse gases.
- Job displacement: Some argue they take away work from manual laborers.
The Old-Fashioned Way, with a Twist:
- Raking: It’s good exercise and gets you outdoors.
- Play: You haven’t lived until you’re romped in a deep pile of fragrant autumn leaves.
- Composting: Instead of bagging leaves, consider composting them for nutrient-rich soil.
- Leaf mulching: Chopping leaves with a lawn mower creates a natural mulch, retaining moisture and suppressing weeds.
Finding Common Ground:
- Electric blowers: These are quieter and emission-free, though noise can still be a factor.
- Shared equipment: Consider splitting the cost or borrowing a blower with a neighbor to minimize individual use.
Ultimately, the best approach depends on your situation. But there are ways to manage leaves that are better for your ears, the environment, and potentially even your wallet.
