Friday Quickie: Reduce Yard Waste This Fall

Autumn leaves are gorgeous , but can add up to quite the mess when they fall. Don’t let your yard waste end up in landfills!  Here’s a few do’s and don’ts for this leafy season:

• Don’t use a leaf blower. Leaf blowers may save time, but they release emissions and cause pollution.
• Do grab a rake! You’ll kill two birds with one stone – getting in a good workout, and cleaning up your yard simultaneously.
• Don’t burn your leaves. It’s crazy that people still do this – yes it’s easy but putting a match to a big pile of leaves produces hydrocarbons that can contain toxic and carcinogenic compounds. Not to mention it’s a fire hazard!
• Do compost. Grinding or shredding leaves typically makes composting a little simpler. Check out this tutorial on how to compost leaves.
• Definite Do – take advantage of the The Streets Department Bagged Leaf and Recycling Program starting November 5th! For more info check out the Philly Streets site.