Durham is making strides toward sustainability with its groundbreaking green initiatives. The City is committed to reducing carbon emissions, embracing renewable energy, and fostering a cleaner, healthier environment through its Carbon Neutrality and Renewable Energy Action Plan. A key focus of these efforts lies in revolutionizing landscape maintenance, transitioning from fossil fuels to clean electric power.
The Impact of Green Equipment
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), running a gas-powered mower for just one hour produces as much harmful pollution as operating 11 new cars for an hour. To combat this, Durham’s General Services Department has equipped its Landscape Team with state-of-the-art battery-powered electric tools, including sprayers, mowers, edgers, trimmers, and chainsaws. These tools not only reduce harmful emissions but are quieter, cost-efficient, and easier to maintain. They eliminate fuel spill risks and enhance safety for workers and residents alike.
Solar-Powered Landscape Trailer: A Game-Changer
Thanks to funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), Durham has introduced a solar and battery-powered landscape trailer. This innovative trailer harnesses solar energy to charge the electric mowers, blowers, and edgers used by the Downtown Landscape Crew.
Key features of the trailer include:
• Solar panels and a battery storage system.
• Continuous power for electric landscape tools.
• Quieter, emission-free operations for maintaining Durham’s green spaces, plazas, and cemeteries.
This initiative positions Durham as a leader in climate-friendly urban solutions and highlights the City’s dedication to sustainable practices.
High-Tech Mowing with Raymo and Mowbot
The City’s landscape team also utilizes cutting-edge technology to maintain challenging terrains:
•Raymo Slope Mower: This remote-controlled electric mower safely handles steep and difficult slopes, reducing risks for workers. It operates quietly and without harmful emissions, making it a win for both safety and the environment.
•Mowbot: A robotic, Roomba-like mower, the Mowbot autonomously keeps lawns pristine while maintaining the City’s commitment to clean, green energy.
These innovations allow the City to reduce noise pollution, lower maintenance costs, and contribute to better air quality for residents.
A Greener Future for Durham
Durham’s dedication to sustainability doesn’t stop at landscaping. The General Services Department continues to test and adopt new technologies to enhance green practices, ensuring that the City remains at the forefront of environmental stewardship.
For more information about Durham’s green initiatives, contact the General Services Department at 919-560-4197. Together, we’re building a cleaner, greener Durham!
