Sustainability has become a buzzword in the business world over the last few years but it’s not simply a passing fad like Chilean Sea Bass was for the chain restaurant industry. As we face climate change head-on, we need to do our part to fight it as well as adapt to changes that are already at our doorstep. Implementing green practices at home and in business must be a top priority from here on out.
When it comes to your commercial landscape, there are many ways to achieve sustainability.
Irrigation
Water conservation is a big part of landscape sustainability and having a smart irrigation system is essential. A simple sprinkler system on a timer just isn’t enough. Smart irrigation systems use rain sensors to avoid unnecessary watering when it rains, prevent over or under watering, and in some areas drip irrigation systems can be more than 90% more efficient at targeting a plant’s roots. Having your irrigation system regularly maintained will also help conserve water by finding any leaks, making sure that all sprinkler heads are working and facing in the optimal direction for use (i.e. not watering walkways or facing walls), and ensuring that the system is working at its most efficient. Better water management leads to less water usage.
LEED Certification
LEED, or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is a rating system for green buildings. It’s a framework for ensuring your building (and landscape) is highly efficient for the health of its occupants and the environment.
Having LEED certification has many benefits. When you operate at maximum efficiency, you save money. Also, being able to advertise to potential clients and tenants that you are LEED-certified makes your business more attractive. It shows you care about the wellbeing of tenants and customers as well as the world around us.
Trees, Shrubs, and Plants
Trees and plants do more for your property than just make it beautiful. Trees create shade and can cut building cooling costs, prevent soil erosion, and can slow those biting winter winds. Native plants are hardier and require less water than non-native ones and can be used to manage stormwater runoff on your property through bioretention.
Reuse Clippings
Instead of having grass clippings hauled away, they can be left on the lawn to act as a natural fertilizer. As the clippings break down, they provide your lawn’s roots with vital nutrients and you’ll be able to use less fertilizer.
Find the Right Commercial Landscape Company
If you’re going to make sustainability a part of your commercial landscape, why would you choose a landscape company who didn’t practice what they preach? At Bluegrass Lawncare and Snow Management, we take sustainability as seriously as you do. Our main office is powered by the sun, our crews use clean-burning propane in their mowers, and our managers use energy-efficient vehicles.
Bluegrass can help your company earn points toward your LEED certification and create a greener, cleaner property. If you have questions about the sustainability of your commercial property and would like to see what Bluegrass can do for you, call us today at (314) 770-2828 or use our simple contact form to discuss your sustainability needs.
