Open burning of green waste emits as much pollution as a car driving 13,000 km, yet it remains a common practice. Alternatives like composting and mulching offer cleaner solutions.
Fine particles from burning green waste
Burning 50 kg of green waste outdoors emits as many fine particles as a recent diesel car traveling about 13,000 kilometers, according to reports highlighting the environmental impact of this common practice. Sources of air pollution
Open burning of green waste, such as leaves, branches, or trimming residues, releases a significant amount of fine particles into the atmosphere, challenging common assumptions about the sources of air pollution. Persistent habit among older individuals
This practice remains a firmly rooted habit among many older individuals, often perceived as a practical and quick solution when there is no waste disposal center nearby or when one wants to avoid an additional car trip. Impact on local air quality
However, the combustion releases these particles directly into the ambient air, affecting local air quality. Alternatives to burning green waste
Concrete alternatives to get rid of green waste without polluting include composting, mulching, and taking larger volumes to a waste disposal center. Composting as an accessible solution
Composting remains the most accessible option, allowing dead leaves, grass clippings, and small trimming residues to be directly used on site to nourish the soil. Mulching for garden use
Mulching is another option, transforming branches into mulch useful for protecting flower beds and reducing watering. Waste disposal centers for larger volumes
For larger volumes, the waste disposal center remains the simplest and cleanest solution. Adopting eco-friendly practices
Adopting these gestures requires neither significant investment nor excessive effort, just a little organization at the garden level.
