Ask the Experts, Landscape Maintenance Environmental Benefits of Healthy Landscapes February 20, 2023 Many people understand the importance of having a healthy landscape for making that ever-important curb appeal, as well as contributing to the overall beautification of the community. However, the environmental benefits of responsible and sustainable landscaping are creating a significant difference in sustainability efforts on a global scale. In fact, creating and maintaining sustainable green spaces enhances water purity and air quality, and can even aid in controlling noise pollution, regulating the temperature, and building up your physical and emotional condition. Cleaning the air with healthy green spaces Did you know that a mature tree can absorb approximately 48 pounds of carbon dioxide in one year from the air? Today’s quality of air is adversely impacted by the overproduction of air pollutants, which includes: Carbon dioxide, which is produced naturally by organic decomposition, respiration, and industrial activities like burning fossil fuels. Carbon monoxide, which is created by gas stoves, fuel-burning engines, furnaces, grills, etc. Sulfur dioxide, which is formed by burning sulfur-containing fuels such as coal, diesel, and oil. Nitrous oxide, also known as the ‘laughing gas’ and is oftentimes used in dental and medical procedures, is also a natural pollutant that contains organic materials like those present in animal and human waste. Volatile organic compounds, which are present in a lot of man-made products like paints and manufactured materials The good news is, due to the natural process of photosynthesis, trees, grass, shrubs, and even houseplants do a good job of absorbing these harmful gasses from the air and transforming or converting them into the oxygen that we breathe. This is one of the main reasons why healthy green spaces are vital in our lives, especially since we live in a day and age when urban development and deforestation are compromising the quality of the air that we breathe. Filter pollution and control erosion through softscapes A healthy landscape is able to act like a natural water filtration system. A lot of pollutants are being filtered through softscapes, preventing them from contaminating our valuable water sources. Green spaces are cooler Aside from filtering our water and air, green spaces do not contain heat from the sun compared to other materials, which means that green groundcovers like gardens, turfgrass, and parks, are significantly cooler than areas of stone, asphalt, and dirt. Greenery further cools urban spaces by giving shade, and they also do a great job of shielding the interior of structures from the sun’s rays, helping by lowering energy costs and climate control. Landscaping lessens light and noise pollution Landscapes that are abundant in trees and shrubs can serve as effective barriers to light and sound, which includes busy city roadways. In fact, a U.S. Department of Energy study reveals that trees can reduce noise levels by at least 50%. Healthy landscapes are beneficial to our well-being Having a green haven where you can decompress is one of the healthiest gifts you can give yourself and others. Whether it’s an area which can serve as a place to exercise, a relaxing outdoor reprieve where you can unwind, or a natural meditation space, having a natural landscape can be important to your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. If you are ready for a sustainable landscaping partner that is dedicated to keeping your green space healthy and flourishing while only employing the best landscaping practices, get in touch with Southern Botanical today.