Green Junction by Julie Peller, Ph.D. ~ perfect green lawn protects wildlife

Green Junction

Fortune magazine published an article in 2023 titled “People painting their lawns is only the latest twist in the long strange American pursuit of perfect grass.” A 2022 BBC article titled “The strange appeal of garden lawns” begins by stating, “Many of us create or maintain lawns without giving it a second thought. But could these innocent patches of greenery be a colossal waste of space?” The article suggests converting lawns into gardens, areas for more trees and other beneficial plants.

In the BBC article, the social media science communicator was quoted. “Lawns are symbolic of our lack of thought, of the collective ignorance of so many of our actions.” She also argues that “It’s a necessary part of climate change adaptation to do something better with the space (lawns).” The requirements for “perfect” green lawns are NOT environmentally friendly and have not been considered in climate mitigation and adaptation actions. Manicured green lawns utilize significant amounts of chemicals (energy and resources required), waste fresh water to the tune of hundreds of billions of gallons of water each summer day, and require regular mowing, which mainly involves burning fossil fuels. 

The obsession with green lawns can have dire consequences for our beloved pets. The Humane Society posted an article in 2023 citing a number of studies on the potential health risks of chemically treated lawns. “A 1991 study found that dogs whose owners used herbicide 2,4-D were up to 200% more likely to develop lymphoma.” The article continues, “According to a 2013 study, Scottish terriers exposed to herbicide-treated lawns had a greater risk of cancer—up to seven times higher.” These are not isolated incidents but part of a larger pattern. Many other essential studies are presented in the article. One suggestion is to “avoid walking your dog in pristine parks and yards.” 

From “A Blessing of a Beloved Pet,” Thank you for this animal, for the love and joy it brings. Please bless this creature and let our loving care for them reflect your loving nature.” Reducing or eliminating the requirements for a perfect green lawn protects wildlife (rabbits, squirrels, etc.) from toxic chemicals’ effects.

Julie Peller, Ph.D., is an environmental chemist (Professor of Chemistry at Valparaiso University ). She has been writing a weekly column called The Green Junction for the past seven years and is helping to move the call of Laudato Si to action forward. Her Research Interests are advanced oxidation for aqueous solutions, water quality analyses, emerging contaminants, air quality analyses, Lake Michigan shoreline challenges (Cladophora, water, and sediment contaminants), and student and citizen participation in environmental work.