Toxic pollutants from roofs, sidewalks, lawns and driveways make their way to natural streams and public water sources via stormwater runoff. Stormwater runoff is essentially rainwater that becomes concentrated with pollutants as it travels across hard surfaces, through storm drains and into larger bodies of water. It erodes natural and manmade structures, damages wildlife habitat and fills waterways with a nasty sludge. Now that we’ve got your attention, there are a few ways you can take part in reducing the negative effects of stormwater pollution. Check out the list below then start implementing each item to reduce your home’s impact!
1. Dispose of Chemicals Properly
If you take the DIY approach to changing your car’s oil, NEVER dump the old oil in your lawn, on the sidewalk or in a storm drain. Your local auto parts store will gladly take your used motor oil and make sure it is properly recycled. You will also want to take caution when disposing of cleaning products and pool water. Cleaning products should be disposed of at a household hazardous waste collection event. Pool water should be allowed to sit for several days without treatment before allowing it to drain into a grassy area away from waterways and storm drains.
2. Avoid Harsh Chemicals for Lawn Care
While this may seem like a tall order, there are actually many ways you can avoid using chemicals for your lawn care. Composting is a great way to do away with using chemical fertilizers. Switching your pest control services over to a green pest control service provider will also significantly decrease your chemical contribution as the products and techniques they use are likely organic and environmentally safe.
3. Increase Vegetation, Decrease Pavement
If possible, reducing the amount of paved area in your outdoor space and replacing it with vegetation is a great way to reduce stormwater pollution. Vegetation will prevent chemicals from travelling into waterways by helping absorb and filter any chemicals you do use around the house out of stormwater. If you’re considering or in the process of redesigning your lawn, try to allow for maximum vegetation space and minimal pavement.
Guest blog submitted by Green Pest X.