When we moved into our home a few years back, I was thrilled to be close to a charming local hardware store and a big-box home improvement store. However, I’m not exactly the handy type—I’ve always felt more comfortable with simple tools like shovels and rakes. For anything more complicated, I turned to YouTube for guidance. Whether it was fixing the bathtub handle my kid broke or mending a window that met an unfortunate fate during baseball practice, I often relied on neighbors for extra help.
As we tackled our yard work, we experimented with college students offering lawn care services, which included mowing and leaf collection. Watching our grass look pristine without having to rake was a blessing. But then I thought, why not invest in a leaf blower? I couldn’t help but admire how quickly my neighbor effortlessly cleared his yard. Meanwhile, I found myself bribing my teenage son with treats and cash to handle the raking with our unreliable tools.
However, after some reflection, I realized that both a leaf blower and a single-serve coffee maker are not the best for our planet, despite how convenient they seem. Using a backpack leaf blower for just an hour can release more carbon monoxide than a car running for eight hours. The dangers of carbon monoxide are well-known, and it’s alarming to consider that over 11 million leaf blowers were active in the U.S. as of a recent study.
The sound of these machines is not only annoying but can also lead to hearing loss. Those loud whirs disrupt peace on weekend mornings, making it difficult for neighbors to enjoy a well-deserved sleep-in. Noise pollution can elevate stress levels, which in turn affects health and productivity. I can attest to the frustration of a napping baby being awakened by that incessant noise.
Some communities have already begun to ban leaf blowers due to their environmental impact. Cities in California and Washington, D.C., are phasing them out because of their contribution to air pollution and noise disturbances. As noted by Hannah Stafford from the Natural Resources Commission, the pandemic has highlighted the adverse effects of leaf blowers on air quality and noise levels, especially as more people conduct outdoor activities.
By January 2022, Washington D.C. will enforce a ban on leaf blowers, paving the way for raking to become the new norm. If you’re physically able, raking can be a great workout, improving strength while keeping your yard tidy. It’s like hitting two birds with one stone!
Currently, my lawn is blanketed with snow, concealing a mountain of brown leaves beneath. I’m too worn out to tackle this chore or convince my son to join in, and I’m hesitant to hire our college landscaping guy this month. My desire for a leaf blower has faded, replaced by a commitment to respect my neighbors and help the environment. Although my yard may look a bit neglected now, there’s always spring for raking. Plus, it might just tone my muscles, and my neighbors will be grateful.
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In conclusion, opting for a rake over a leaf blower not only fosters a healthier environment but also promotes a sense of community by reducing noise and air pollution. Plus, it provides added physical benefits. So next time you’re faced with a yard full of leaves, consider the rake as your go-to tool.