The world we live in is constantly changing and evolving to accommodate shifting populations and incorporate new technology and advancements. Urban areas continue to show growth, but suburban communities have seen the largest increase in recent years, resulting in higher populations and sprawling land development. As more grass and trees are razed to make way for these expansions, it is imperative that we consider the ways that we can utilize sustainable, eco-friendly landscaping practices to transform these spaces. Landscaping can no longer just be about designing aesthetically pleasing properties; we must also consider how we can incorporate elements that contribute to a healthy environment.
Urban areas
Urbanization has had a significant impact on the environment through factors such deforestation, habitat loss, erosion, diminished soil and water quality, and pollution. More people and buildings mean less green space and more pollutants, so there is an increased focus on urban landscape design that preserves and utilizes a city’s natural ecosystem rather than destroying it. Incorporating native plants and trees decreases soil erosion and helps control rainwater runoff, while purifying and promoting cleaner water and air. Trees also provide shade for buildings and sidewalks, thus reducing energy consumption in homes and businesses and creating more comfortable and pleasurable areas for the city’s residents and visitors. Rooftop gardens, vertical gardens, green roofs, green walls, and pocket parks are some of the sustainable landscape designs that are being embraced by urban landscape designers and city planners to improve the impact that large cities have on the environment.
Suburban communities
Although not as condensed as their urban counterparts, the sprawling nature of suburban areas can also have a major influence on the environment. Large expanses of land occupied by a myriad of commercial and personal properties also lead to many of the same issues as in urban locations – deforestation, disruption to or loss of habitats, erosion, as well as water and air pollution. Air pollution is especially problematic because the sheer number of vehicles traveling both near and far leads to a drastic increase in the amount of carbon dioxide in the air. When combined with the loss of natural vegetation due to land development, it is clear that something needs to be done to mitigate the environmental impact. Fortunately, there are steps that businesses and homeowners can take to integrate sustainable features into their landscapes.
In addition to increasing the beauty and perception of a business, adding green space to a commercial property is a great way to help with heat, water, and carbon absorption. Using recycled materials or pervious concrete pavement is a great way to reduce your environmental impact and prevent water runoff. Since many businesses use professional lawn care companies to maintain their landscapes, be sure to choose a company that employs eco-friendly practices such as battery-operated machines, organic fertilizers and chemicals, and water conservation.
Homeowners can do their part by utilizing the aforementioned eco-friendly practices when maintaining their own landscapes, but they can also design a space that promotes sustainability. Using native plants and flowers is especially beneficial because they are generally hardier, require less water to survive, and support local wildlife. Add features that utilize solar power or wind energy and water saving options such as rain barrels and permeable surfaces that allow for water absorption and reduce runoff. If you aren’t sure where to begin, consult with a local professional landscaping company to ensure that you are making both budget and eco-friendly choices.
Thanks to increased awareness and concern about the impact we have on our environment, more people are taking steps to revolutionize the way they design their landscapes by transforming their outdoor spaces into areas that will improve the health of our planet.
