Spring 2011 Vol. 19 No. 1 |
Spring is a natural resurrection, an experience in immortality -Henry David Thoreau |
In this issue... Reflections from the President Celebration for the Gibraltar Bay Unit of the Detroit River International Refuge 2010 GI Conservationist of the Year Award Second Sundays at the Wildlife Refuge/Nature Area Michigan Amphibians and Mudpuppies Survey Small Machines - Big Polluters Upcoming Events... May 1 May 13 Nature Area Open May 15 November 5
|
Small Engines—Big Polluters Most people do not associate air pollution with mowing the lawn, yet emissions from lawn mowers, snow blowers, chain saws, leaf vacuums, and similar outdoor power equipment are a significant source of pollution. Small engines emit high levels of carbon monoxide—a colorless, odorless, poisonous gas. They also emit hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides—pollutants that contribute to the formation of ozone. While ozone occurs naturally in the upper atmosphere and shields the earth from harmful radiation, at ground level it is a noxious pollutant. Ground-level ozone impairs lung function, inhibits plant growth, and is a key ingredient of smog. Emissions control for small gasoline engines has not been a crucial design consideration until recently. Consequently, small engines are big polluters. And power equipment users inadvertently contribute to the problem by carelessly handling fuel and by improperly maintaining their equipment. Use an electric lawn mower to reduce your carbon footprint. Better yet, use a push (reel) mower and burn calories instead of fossil fuels! |