Wilmette bans leaf blowers during the summer for a number of reasons. Gas-powered leaf blowers throw mold, gas fumes, fertilizer, herbicides, pesticides, dirt, dust, bugs, and animal fecal matter, into the air for us to breath until it rains. And leaf blowers emit shrill noise, disturbing neighbors and cause significant noise pollution.
According to the American Lung Association, a single gas-powered leaf blower run for 1 hour produces exhaust equivalent to a car driven 350 miles. The exhaust is unfiltered and contains numerous pollutants and carcinogens as fine particulate matter. These particles are particularly harmful to the lungs of young children and to residents of all ages who have lung problems.
Although the ban in Wilmette only lasts from mid-May until mid-September, it is a more sound environmental practice to avoid using leaf blowers as much as possible. Mulching mowers, brooms and rakes can be effectively used to maintain a beautiful yard and have the added benefit of contributing to your health by requiring some extra exercise.
Help keep our air clean (and quiet) by observing the gas-powered leaf blower restriction that begins May 15th. Learn more about the harmful effects of leaf blowers here www.gogreenwilmette.org/landscaping/#leaf. Print out this bi-lingual handout to give to lawn care companies ignoring the restrictions. Report those companies to the Village by the non-emergency police number 847-256-1200. or by calling Ted Blumenthal, Village Code Enforcer, at 847/853-7521.
Add your comments and experiences with leaf blowers to this local leaf blower website. theleafbloweralternative.com
