The loud roar of leaf blowers has become a common sound in communities across America, leading to bans or restrictions on gasoline – powered models in many places. However, these measures are facing opposition from the landscaping industry and some property owners.
Support for the Bans
Jessica Stolzberg, a writer in Montclair, New Jersey, was actively involved in getting a ban on gas – powered leaf blowers enacted in her hometown. She believes that these machines are too noisy, polluting, and not suitable for areas where children play. Since the ban took effect last October, Montclair has become a healthier, cleaner, and quieter community.
Doug O’Malley, director of Environment New Jersey, also supports the bans. He points out that gas – powered leaf blowers are a major source of pollution. Using such a blower for an hour creates as much pollution as driving a car for 1,100 miles (1,770 kilometers). More than 100 cities across the U.S. have already banned or restricted gas – powered leaf blowers, including California (where a ban starts next month), Washington, D.C., Portland, Oregon; Montgomery County, Maryland; Burlington, Vermont; and Evanston, Illinois.
Opposition from the Industry
The landscaping industry and some property owners are opposed to the bans. They argue that battery – powered blowers are costlier and not as effective as gasoline – powered ones. Rich Goldstein, president of the New Jersey Landscape Contractors Association, which represents 550 companies in the state, says that New Jersey is heavily bombarded with leaves. The average house in New Jersey has to deal with 30 to 50 cubic feet of leaves each fall, and gas – powered blowers are needed for their power.
Compromises in Some Areas
New Jersey is considering a statewide ban on gas – powered leaf blowers. A state Senate committee has advanced a bill that would ban such blowers most of the year. However, it would allow ones using four – stroke combustion engines to be used during peak cleanup periods in spring and fall. Dirtier two – stroke models would be phased out after two years. The industry says it is willing to make this compromise to still be able to use the more powerful gas – powered blowers when they are most needed.
In conclusion, while there is a growing trend towards banning gas – powered leaf blowers due to their noise and pollution, the issue is complex. The industry’s concerns about cost and performance need to be addressed, and compromises may be necessary to find a solution that satisfies all parties.
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