Municipal utilities and many private landowners often use motorized leaf blowers these days to clear the ground from fall leaves. Overuse of these devices in unsealed areas such as meadows, green edges, recreation areas, forests or protected areas is increasing rapidly, STS said on Friday.
However, the depletion of the natural litter layer threatens the bottom fauna, which serves as a habitat for large numbers of small animals, a place to overwinter, or a food source. Strong turbulence can kill animals or tear them alive.
Additionally, leaf blowers are as loud as a chainsaw or a drill at 90 to 120 decibels, according to STS. This noise can also pose a health risk to those who operate leaf blowers and to people and animals in the immediate vicinity. In addition to soil bacteria, mold and viruses, the strong airflow activates pathogens found in animal feces.
As a result, STS urges users of leaf blowers to do without them. Leaf blowers and leaf brooms are practical and time-saving. However, its negative effects on humans, animals and the environment are serious. Therefore, it is better to use a rake and a broom.
(SDA)