At Groundscapes we understand the importance of preserving the environment, and the value of the natural outdoors - it's what we create every day! However, what many customers often ask, and what is frequently less known, is the real value of landscaping for the environment: Landscaping is a crucial activity that helps preserve the environment, increase psychological well-being and diminishes stress.

From our experience (and with backing from a number of experts), it's clear that any home or business interested in preserving the environment or increasing the well being of family members and employees should consider the following 3 benefits that landscaping provides for the Environment.

Benefit 1: Effective Landscaping Saves Energy & Money

According to a study done by the United States Department of Energy, planting a minimum of three trees (only three!) can cut energy costs by $250 dollars a year in heating and cooling costs of a home, when they are selectively placed for optimal shade. As the trees grow over time, the benefit accumulates.

In a further study by Colorado State University, it was shown that a single tree absorbs an astounding 48 pounds of carbon dioxide each year! As a carbon sink, trees are vital to managing the climate. At the same time, lawn management is equally important: the study goes on to explain that, “Lawns also have the ability to sequester carbon for 25 to 30 years, when using best management practices.”

Fun Fact: 55 Square Feet of Turf Grass (more or less an average lawn) provides enough oxygen for 1 person per day!

Benefit 2: Habitat Preservation and Ecological Support

Beyond saving energy and money, a landscape is a crucial component for preserving habitats and local ecological systems. Among other benefits, a landscape will: (1) conserve biodiversity within an environment, (2) protect soil and water resources, (3) clean the air, (4) prevent storm-water runoff into areas of the lawn or side yards, and (5) protect an area from the urban heat island effect.

Fun Fact: Heat islands in concrete jungles can increase the temperature by up to 22 degrees Fahrenheit on a hot summer day - landscaping can help with that!

Benefit 3: Increasing Human Connection With Nature

Consistent studies from the past two decades have shown a number of fascinating trends between human psychological well-being and social connection, and the environment. According to one study referenced by Colorado State University, health patients who spent time outdoors, or could visibly see trees and clusters of flowers reported that they: (1) slept better, (2) had a higher tolerance for pain, and (3) a more positive attitude than those who did not.

To compliment this finding, the study also references the fact that a surprising 95% of people feel calmer and have a positive change in mood when spending time in or around a landscape.

Socially, studies have indicated that office workers are “more productive, report fewer illnesses, and have a higher job satisfaction” than those who do not. Even in public housing, 25% of fewer crimes occur when a landscape is built into the model of the complex. Overall, it's clear that not only can landscaping help directly save the environment, but it also improves human relationships with the environment and with one another.

Fun Fact: 66% of people actively look to retreat to a natural setting when they are stressed.

Conclusion:

At Groundscapes, we have built our business around customer satisfaction and environmental sustainability for the past 20 years. We actively work with commercial properties to enhance the lifestyle of their employees, improve productivity, and provide relaxing atmospheres for all. Sustainable landscaping is only just beginning - and it's never too late to get started today. Get in touch with our design consultation form to hear about our special sustainability package that is guaranteed to make your home beautiful while also helping preserve the environment!