Before hauling that old gas-powered mower out for another season, consider this: emissions from nonroad engines contribute up to 20 percent of unhealthy pollution in cities across the United States. And, according to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), gas-powered lawn equipment is one of the biggest culprits.
The agency notes that gasoline-based lawn care pumps tons of hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide into the air each year.
Hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides are the pollutants that cause ground-level ozone, a major component of smog. In addition, some hydrocarbons are toxic and may cause cancer or other health problems.
Nitrogen oxides also contribute to acid rain, and carbon dioxide is a "greenhouse gas" that contributes to global warming.
Now the good news. Thanks to a three-year-old partnership between PPL Corporation and the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, you can save money on a new electric mower or other lawn tools and help reduce air pollution.
To participate, simply turn in a gas-powered mower, weed trimmer, chainsaw, leaf blower or edger and you'll receive a special coupon. After purchasing your new electric-powered tool, return a copy of the store receipt along with the coupon to PPL and you will receive a rebate check.
The May 6 program offers $75 rebates on the purchase of any electric lawnmower and $20 rebates on the purchase of an electric weed trimmer, chainsaw, leaf blower or edger.
"During past summers, air quality in some non-urban areas in Pennsylvania has reached unacceptable levels," said Lynn Ratzell, PPL's environmental manager. "One area we all can help reduce emissions is replacing old gasoline-powered lawn equipment. Many of the older units have very high emissions of contaminants that contribute to smog."
About 500 rebates are available this year and the offer is limited to one lawnmower and one of the smaller tools per household.
Call toll-free at 1-877-LMOWERS (1-877-566-9377) for additional information, or simply bring your gasoline-powered equipment to PPL's Lancaster Service Center, 651 Delp Road , Lancaster or its Lehigh Service Center, 827 Hausman Road, Allentown between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. on May 6.