GINLC Newsletter: Small Engines

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!