Environment

Cut Your Lawn and Your Pollution Footprint

Reading Time: < 1 minute

You may not realize it, but lawn mowers contribute their fair share of pollution in our atmosphere. The average gas powered mower emits 10 pounds of air pollution each year, according to County officials.

 

There’s an easy way to change that. This Saturday, the County will offer residents a way to trim their pollution footprint at the 13th Annual “Mowing Down Pollution” Lawn Mower Trade-In Event.

Residents can roll their old, gas powered mowers down to the County Administration Center and come away with new, zero-emission models. The price? The new, Black & Decker rechargeable models, which normally retail for $400 plus tax, will cost just $99.99.

Hundreds of the 36-volt cordless mowers will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis, County Board of Supervisors Chairman Ron Roberts said at a news conference today. With this event, Roberts said the county will have accepted more than 6,000 mower trade-ins over the years, cutting air pollution levels by 22 tons a year. The new, upgraded models emit zero pollution.

“The impact on our environment here couldn’t be more impressive,” he said. “It allows us all to be a little healthier, to breathe easier. And especially for our children and our seniors–for everyone–it’s much better for our lungs.”

The event will start at 8 a.m. in the North Parking Lot of the County Administration Center at 1600 Pacific Highway, San Diego 92101. Participants are advised to arrive early, ideally by 7 a.m., with their trade-in mowers emptied of oil and gas. Photo IDs and proof of San Diego County residency are required.

One trade-in is allowed per household and it must be in working condition. Parking will be available in the North and South parking lots of the County Administration Center.

More information (pdf)