The Chathams Wants To Pause Leaf Blower Use During 'Quiet Summer' Initiative

CHATHAM, NEW JERSEY — Chatham Township and Chatham Borough are looking to make summers a little quieter for residents thanks in part to a new initiative.

Residents are being asked to take part in Quiet Summer, a voluntary effort to pause the use of gas-powered leaf blowers from June through September.

The initiative comes from the Chatham Township Environmental Commission and the Chatham Borough Environmental Commission, which said the program is meant to reduce noise pollution and exhaust emissions during the summer months in the Chathams.

The goal of the initiative is to bring more peace and quiet to neighborhoods while also raising awareness about health concerns tied to gas-powered leaf blowers.

Residents doing their own yard work are encouraged to rake when needed, and to use electric blowers or brooms on sidewalks, driveways and patios.

“We’re excited to launch this initiative and hope to get some good community engagement! Our goal is that residents will enjoy the noise reduction and breathe a little freer when on a walk or out for a jog. It may even encourage residents to adopt these new habits on a permanent basis," Jessica Romeo, chair of the Chatham Township Environmental Commission, said.

According to both CTEC and CBEC, the benefits of a quiet summer are many.

• Noise Reduction:Gas blowers operate at high decibel levels that can cause stress and contribute to hearing loss. Exposure to loud or persistent noise can also contribute to hypertension, ischemic heart disease, sleep disturbance, and cognitive impairment.
• Health & Environment:Two-stroke engines produce significant air pollution, emitting carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds such as benzene and formaldehyde as well as fine particulate matter that can affect those with asthma.
• Summer Maintenance:In the summer, blowers are largely just moving grass clippings rather than dense leaves. The Environmental Commissions advise leaving clippings on the lawn.

Residents are encouraged to participate and also ask their landscapers to pause the use of gas-powered leaf blowers and join the effort for cleaner air and quieter yards.