Working towards USGBC LEED certification for your project? GardenMark products can help! Artificial grass is recognized as a GREEN material that contributes to sustainable building. Housing and commercial developers appreciate the role artificial grass can play in obtaining USGBC LEED certification for their project, resulting in a variety of tax benefits. Using GardenMark products can help builders meet USGBC LEED criteria under several categories (SS61, SS62, WE1, MR4, and MR6.1) and can provide an attractive, cost effective way to create a sustainable project.
The environmental benefits continue well after the project is completed. GardenMark uses Durafill, a non-toxic, non-absorbent “synthetic soil” that is pet and environment friendly, preventing bacteria growth. Durafill’s trademark green silicone dioxide granules are cooler than black crumb rubber and more sanitary than silica. Durafill is a one-time application, keeping costs down.
The “greenest” aspect of artificial grass is in the simple upkeep. There are no harmful fertilizers, weed killers or pesticides leaching into the ground. No mowing means no noxious emissions from gas powered equipment and no grass clippings, which the EPA states are the third largest component of municipal solid waste in landfills.
Water conservation is vital in most areas of the country. Federal and local regulations regarding water use and reductions have become increasingly strict. The Synthetic Turf Council estimates that the use of artificial grass has resulted in the conservation of between three to six billion gallons of water in 2010. In addition to saving money on water bills, some cities offer rebates or credits for residents who install artificial grass as a water-saving landscaping alternative. This is good news for the environment and the artificial grass industry and will continue to create new areas of demand.