No doubt you’ve read up on the many benefits of synthetic grass. You’re sold on the low-maintenance aspect, the mud and weed-free elements and the fact there’s no watering or mowing required. And of course, you get a lawn that looks absolutely amazing, year-round. But when it comes to the environmental aspects, have you satisfied yourself that the eco-credentials of synthetic grass meet all your expectations? With this in mind, let’s take a look at how eco-friendly artificial grass really is.
Reduces water usage: check
One of the most important things we can all do for the environment is preserve vital resources, water being one of them.
Install a fake lawn, and the only watering you’ll ever have to do is a quick hose-down once in a while to remote dirt.
Reduces carbon emissions: check
Reducing our carbon footprint is another way we can all help the environment. Since synthetic grass doesn’t need mowing, that means there’s no need to use electric or petrol-powered mowers or strimmers, which means less fossil fuel usage. Just a single hour of petrol-powered mowing produces the equivalent in pollution as four hours of driving.
It is true that natural grass absorbs carbon, however the amount it can absorb is offset by the amount of energy that goes into its upkeep. Whilst no type of grass has the ability to reduce carbon emission to zero, imitation turf can help to contribute towards the reduction of your property’s carbon footprint.
Non-toxic: check
The budget artificial grass we sell here at Astro Warehouse is free from heavy metals and chemicals, making it non-toxic and suitable for family enjoyment.
The argument for natural grass often comes up with the fact that it provides a bountiful environment for wildlife and pollinators. But in reality, how many people allow weeds to grown on their lawn?
The truth is that hundreds of thousands of pounds are spent every year by people looking to remove weeds from their grass. In fact, unwanted plants growing amongst natural turf contribute to the use of over 30 million kilograms of herbicides and pesticides every year. That’s quite a shocking statistic, and it’s important to consider that such chemicals have the potential to negatively impact upon our local environment, as well as pose a risk to human, pet, wildlife and marine health.
Synthetic grass poses no risk of chemical contamination, because there is never any need to fertilise or de-weed it.
The flip side
There is of course always a flip side when it comes to considering things like eco-friendly credentials.
Fake grass for example won’t attract pollinators, but on the other hand, if you invest just some of the time and money you’ll save by switching to a low-maintenance lawn into adorning your garden with plants, flowers and shrubs to complement your lovely lawn, then you’ve created a benefit in itself there.
Synthetic grass doesn’t help to prevent soil erosion or enhance soil regeneration; neither does it absorb rain water. There are also carbon emissions involved in its manufacture, transport and installation too. But it’s just a matter of being informed, and balancing the pros and cons. Natural grass isn’t 100 per cent eco-friendly either!
Buy budget artificial grass by the roll from Astro Warehouse
Astro Warehouse is one of the most renowned artificial grass suppliers where you won’t find comparable quality synthetic turf at rates any lower. And that’s a promise!
Peruse our artificial grass ranges, check our installation guides, or get in touch for all the specialist advice you need from our friendly, helpful team.