I’m at the computer in my home office in Chestnut Hill with headphones on and the volume of Beethoven’s Fifth too loud to get anything done. Why? Because it’s the only way I can tune out the leaf blowers which seem to get louder every year.

I’m not suggesting that all the landscaping services and homeowners turn in their leaf blowers for rakes. Instead, why not use electric or battery powered blowers, both of which pollute the air less and make a lot less noise? And while they’re at it, how about doing the same for lawn trimmers and mowers?

I’ve been using all three for the last 10 years with very few problems. Won’t work with commercial operations? Wrong. This past spring David Brothers Landscaping Services bought two battery powered blowers, noting in its press release: “Our Garden Care teams will utilize these blowers as part of our commitment to sustainability. The use of battery powered equipment means no fossil fuel use and quieter services.”

If you use a landscaping service, tell them to make the switch for next spring. And if you’re a DIY guy like me, do the same. This is one way to ease the frustration over the lack of progress dealing with climate change in Harrisburg and Washington.

Sam Gugino
Chestnut Hill