After hearing so many public service announcements about protecting the environment, you might be wondering what you can do to help. You can start by simply putting your driveway in front of the environment.
As the temperatures rise, so does the need to wash our vehicles clean. But, after you have finished washing your car, did you ever stop to consider how the environment is affected by the dirt?
Beatriss Calhoun. Provided
You are doing more than just washing your vehicle. You are also removing toxic substances like heavy metals, grease and dirt from your car. These harmful pollutants can run from your driveway to your storm drain, polluting nearby waterways.
Stormwater that enters a storm drain doesn’t undergo treatment before it is released into our waterways. This can cause lasting damage to your community’s ecosystem. How can you reduce your negative impact?
Instead of cleaning your vehicle on a hard surface like a driveway or parking lot, wash it on a surface that can absorb water. Alternative locations to reduce runoff pollution include your lawn, permeable pavement, and car-washing machines. These areas allow water slow down to filter out dirt and other pollutants before it reaches storm drains.
There are many benefits to washing your vehicle on your lawn, not only for the storm drain health, but also for the health of your local storm drain. Household water usage can prove costly, especially in drought times. While it might seem strange to your neighbors, washing your vehicle on the lawn will help you save time and money while maintaining your property.
To prevent lawn damage:
- Avoid strong all-purpose cleaners and acidic cleaners. They could contain agents that increase algae growth, alter soil quality, or suffocate plants.
- Wash your vehicle in high-stress areas. To examine lawn areas before washing, use the footprint method. To save water when washing your car, mark areas that hold the footprint shape for a longer time.
- Avoid soft ground areas on your property. If the ground is too hard to walk on, it’s also too soft to drive on.
- Before washing your car, avoid using herbicide on your lawn. The excess water could cause your herbicide to run in undesirable areas.
- Avoid washing your cars when it rains.
You can control how much water you use by checking your spigot for leaks and tears before you wash your vehicle. Evaporating water can reduce water pressure and cause costly waste. To ensure water is only used where it is needed, make sure you use a sprayer with flow restriction. Keep in mind the type and strength of the washing and scrubbing agents you are using. Be sure to read labels and choose eco-friendly detergents.
If you have very limited options regarding pervious surfaces, washing your car at a wash facility is the best eco-friendly choice. Many carwash facilities are equipped with the latest equipment to allow you to set time limits, filter water, control and use different detergents when washing your vehicle. Many facilities can measure and recycle water. Recycled water is most commonly used in the initial rinse stage of the wash process. This conserves water for the final stage of washing to get the best results.
Sean Bing is a local musician and Psychodelics member who washes his vehicle in North Charleston. Beatriss Calhoun/Provided
Although caring for the environment can seem overwhelming at times, it is possible to make small adjustments to household chores that make it easier. You get a well-watered lawn and a better water quality by switching your at-home carwash from pavement to grass.
For more information, please contact Home & Garden Information Center at [email protected]. Or 1-888-656-9988.
Beatriss CalhounCharleston Clemson Extension is represented by the Water Resource Agent.