When properly managed and maintained, the benefits of turfgrass are multifold:
Captures Water Runoff and Dust
- Turfgrass does an excellent job of capturing water runoff and lessening dust and particulate matter pollution, versus alternatives such as hard surfaces, mulched areas and impervious or bare surfaces.
According to a Council for Agricultural Science and Technology (CAST) 2006 Publication, turfgrass decreases dust emissions and for controlling soil erosion, a live, functioning grass cover, including urban lawns, is a cost-effective option, since a grass root system is one of the most effective in soil stabilization because of the fibrous, dense character of its roots.
Lessens Heat Island Effect
- Turfgrass lessens the “heat island” effect, especially in urban areas. Urban areas generally have higher temperatures than surrounding rural areas, well known as the urban "heat island" effect. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) states that “the annual mean air temperature of a city with 1 million people or more can be 1.8–5.4°F (1–3°C) warmer than its surroundings. In the evening, the difference can be as high as 22°F (12°C).”
Captures, Stores Carbon in Roots
- Properly managed turf areas are significant carbon sinks. When kept in a growing state, carbon sequestration in turf areas can range anywhere from four to seven times the carbon emissions, according to a report, Technical Assessment of the Carbon Sequestration Potential of Managed Turfgrass in the United States by Dr. Ranajit (Ron) Sahu.
Boosts the Oxygen Footprint
- Turfgrass can boost your oxygen footprint. Compared to bare ground, non-green areas, and lawn substitutes, such as painted concrete or even artificial turf, actual grass and green areas generate oxygen. For example, a turf area 50' x 50' produces enough oxygen to meet the everyday needs of a family of four and each acre of grass produces enough oxygen for 64 people a day. (Source: http://www.turfgrasssod.org)
How to Maximize Environmental Benefits:
- To realize these benefits a pragmatic approach should be taken in fertilizing and watering turfgrass. While considerations of water availability are real and important, it’s not an either/or situation. Rather consumers should learn how, when and what turfgrass to plant depending on where they live in the country. Here are some important ways to maintain turfgrass responsibly and maximize its benefits:
Water Sensibly
Turfgrass can be successful in both wet – and dry – climates. Grow turfgrass and other greenery that suits the native climate. For example, drought resistant species need to be planted in water-challenged regions, while turfgrass is often viewed as a critical need in wet climates.
Consumers should speak to a professional landscaper or visit http://www.thelawninstitute.org/ to find out how, when and what to plant depending on where they live or http://urbanext.illinois.edu/lawnchallenge/lesson4.html to learn how to water lawns the right way.
Fertilize Naturally
The largest amount of carbon intake occurs with the recycling of nitrogen contained in grass clippings. Leave clippings on the ground to break down and recycle.
Keep it Growing
Your lawn, if managed properly, can both reduce our carbon footprint and increase oxygen generated through photosynthesis. The key is to actively manage your lawn to improve its carbon intake, and not letting it “go to seed” and into a “dormant” state.
