For a greener, safer san Jose
Healthy and Safe Landscaping in San Jose
The Problem
Gas powered leaf blowers inflict large public pain for a small private gain. They use 19th century technology that disturbs the peace while spewing a host of harmful toxins and pollutants into our neighborhoods. It’s like lead in gasoline: it was never necessary, but it was allowed to poison our communities for decades.
Worker Safety
Using gas-powered leaf blowers places landscaping workers at high risk for hearing loss, cardiovascular disease, and cancer.
Air Pollution
Gas-powered leaf blowers spew unfiltered exhaust containing unburned gas and oil, carbon monoxide, acetaldehyde, benzene, formaldehyde, 1,3-butadiene and other hazardous chemicals into our air.
Extreme Noise
Gas-powered leaf blowers operate at 90 – 100 decibels, and their low-frequency noise penetrates doors and windows. This loud, persistent noise is a serious health hazard.
the combustion engine-powered leaf blower… [has] a net negative effect on human health and climate mitigation efforts compared with their electric analogs. [Its] ongoing use is therefore unjustifiable, warranting a citywide ban and replacement with battery-powered machines
Oakland Municipal Code Chapter 8.64
The Solution
Clean Power
Landscapes were well maintained before gas-powered leaf blowers took over our neighborhoods. Many pro landscapers know they’re not a necessary tool, and by using clean alternatives to leaf blowers in their clients’ yards, they’re cultivating thriving landscapes with just as much curb appeal, but also richer soil, healthier ecology, and less need for watering and fertilizer.
Bottom line–these clean alternatives produce better results and healthier neighborhoods.
Why hasn’t San Jose Banned Gas-Powered Leaf Blowers?
San José’s key climate goal is to achieve community-wide carbon neutrality by 2030. This target is supported by its climate action plan, Climate Smart San José, and the subsequent Pathway to Carbon Neutrality by 2030. Strategies to reach this goal include a shift to 100% renewable electricity, electrification of buildings and transportation, energy efficiency, the development of low-water landscapes, and promoting walkability and public transit.
In that context, the decision to keep gas-powered leaf blowers in San José is shocking. Gas-powered leaf blowers are long-hanging climate action fruit – they are both heavy polluters and have ready replacements.
Our goal is to drive action on San Jose’s climate plan, and create a safer, quieter community.
Join Forces to Create Change
Get involved in the movement to bring about safer working conditions and quieter neighborhoods. Stand alongside passionate activists who are striving to make San Jose a safer, more inviting place to live.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can landscapers still make money with alternative tools?
Yes. In fact, they will see greater profits.
Aren’t gas-powered leaf blowers already banned in California?
No. California has banned only the sale of new 2-stroke gasoline engines. Without further action, gas-powered leaf blowers will plague our communities for many years to come.
How can landscapers pay for new tools?
The new tools quickly pay for themselves via lower operating costs. There are also electric leaf blower rebate programs and many financing options available.
How will a gas-powered leaf blower ban impact low-income landscaping workers?
Gas-powered leaf blowers are most harmful to the workers who use them. Resisting circumstances that primarily harm low-income, often immigrant workers is a primary reason to ban gas-powered leaf blowers.
Will a gas-powered leaf blower ban increase landscaping service prices?
Is a convenient yard service worth endangering workers and ignoring our climate goals?