Why You Should Be Looking At Eco-Friendly Landscaping Tools
When it comes to maintaining your yard and garden, you might put a lot of thought into planting native species, minimizing water usage, and following sustainable practices, but have you considered the environmental impact of the tools you use to mow, till, plant, and harvest? Eco-friendly landscaping tools are made with the planet in mind and can help you achieve greater sustainability in your gardening practices. Today, we’re highlighting the advantages of these tools for the environment, your wallet, and your overall health and wellness.
What makes landscaping tools eco-friendly?
Let’s discuss a few factors that distinguish sustainable landscaping tools from high-emission alternatives.
Materials used in the product
Eco-friendly landscaping tools are often crafted of recycled or sustainable materials, including repurposed metals, bioplastics, bamboo, and responsibly harvested wood. They may feature non-toxic finishes that won’t leach harmful chemicals into the soil, as well as minimal packaging to reduce waste.
Energy efficiency
Manual and battery-powered tools are preferable over those that run on gas, as they’re cleaner and quieter. You’ll also find electric options sold with solar chargers to further reduce energy consumption. While these tools may not always be practical for high-volume professional landscaping crews or people with extensive property to maintain, they can be excellent options for the average homeowner.
Lifespan and recyclability
As you shop for eco-friendly landscaping tools, look for gear that’s made to last. Lawn care equipment that’s built with durable materials like rust-proof stainless steel, sustainably harvested hardwoods, and bamboo will last much longer than cheaper alternatives. It’s also wise to consider whether it’s possible to repair these tools over time or recycle them when they become unusable.
Related: What Is Permaculture and How Does It Work in Landscaping?
Advantages of eco-friendly landscaping tools
Environmentally friendly landscaping tools offer a number of benefits for you and the world around you. Here are just a few of the perks you can look forward to:
Economic advantages
Switching from gas-powered equipment to eco-friendly landscaping tools can help you lower your operating costs by eliminating the need for gas and frequent oil changes. Although rechargeable battery-powered devices rely on traditional energy sources, they usually cost less to operate. Plus, high-quality, durable tools require fewer replacements than cheaper equipment, saving more money over time.
Health and safety
Eco-friendly landscaping tools aren’t just better for the environment. They’re also better for your overall well-being. Many of these options create less noise pollution, generate fewer fumes, and expose you to smaller amounts of toxic chemicals. This makes the time you spend in your outdoor space safer and healthier.
Better for the environment
Manual tools and green equipment generate less air pollution and fewer carbon emissions than gas-powered devices, helping you conserve resources, reduce waste, and minimize your environmental impact. Of course, your carbon footprint is only one part of the equation. Investing in more sustainable tools also benefits the local wildlife, helping you preserve the critical ecosystems in your own backyard.
Related: Tips for Designing the Perfect Permaculture Garden in Florida
What are some must-have eco-friendly landscaping tools?
From basic handheld tools to heavy-duty equipment, it’s possible to find landscaping tools that don’t place excessive strain on the environment. Here are a few essential items to invest in:
Hand-powered landscaping tools
In addition to the classic landscaping tools like your shovel, rake, pruning shears, saw, and garden hose, you can also opt for lo-fi alternatives to many common gas-powered devices. Consider using a manual aerator to improve your soil, handheld hedge trimmers to shape up your shrubbery, and a reel lawn mower to keep your grass nice and neat. You can think of it as part of your strength training routine.
Solar-powered tools
Thanks to modern technology, you can find robotic self-charging lawn mowers, solar-powered pressure washers, and other equipment that generates energy from the sun. However, even if your individual devices don’t feature native solar tech, you can buy a solar battery charger to make your existing landscaping tools a little greener.
Battery-powered tools
Take a stroll through any home improvement store, and you’re bound to find battery-operated tools to meet all your landscaping needs. Rechargeable utility carts, leaf blowers, and weed eaters make lawn maintenance easier and more environmentally friendly than ever.
Related: Plants That Attract Butterflies to Your Florida Garden
Explore sustainable landscaping solutions at Soil & Bloom!
Creating and maintaining the ultimate outdoor oasis doesn’t have to take a toll on the environment. In fact, the team at Soil & Bloom specializes in sustainable landscape services, from design and installation to personalized maintenance plans.
Whether you’re shopping around for a trusted lawn care provider, a crew to tame excessive overgrowth, or an experienced company to help you bring your vision to life, Soil & Bloom is here to help. Ready to get started? Contact us today to schedule a free estimate, and a member of our team will reach out to help you begin the journey!
