Winter weather offers opportunity to start new year with environmental purpose

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - As cold weather keeps its icy grip on the Midwest, the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) is challenging Hoosiers to engage in environmentally-responsible habits when dealing with wintry weather around the home.

To be navigable, sidewalks and driveways need to be cleared of snow and ice, but careful consideration should be given as to how the wintry mix is removed. Snow-blowing devices produce air emissions, so shoveling is friendlier to the environment; however, health and safety should be considered first and foremost because snow is heavy and overexertion can lead to a heart attack. In addition, as much snow as possible should be removed during a storm, rather than waiting until the snow stops falling.

De-icers work best when there is only a thin layer of snow or ice that must be melted, but these should be used sparingly because of the potentially hazardous chemicals they contain. Instead, consider using a more environmentally-friendly flat hoe to help scrape ice; just be cautious when chopping the ice build-up to avoid damaging the sidewalk.

Apply salt sparingly. According to the National Environmental Education & Training Foundation and the Center for Watershed Protection, the recommended application rate for rock salt is about a handful per square yard treated. Using more salt will not increase the rate of melting and excess salt will find its way onto streets, into storm drains, and ultimately into water bodies where it wreaks havoc. Alternatively, sand provides traction and is easy to sweep up when the weather warms. Kitty litter also provides traction and is environmentally-friendly but does not melt snow and ice and tends to get messy. 

Through the Hoosiers Care initiative, six state agencies, including IDEM, are helping Hoosiers learn about small changes that can help the environment and save homeowners money. The collaboration also includes the Indiana State Department of Agriculture, the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs, the Indiana Office of Energy, the Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor, and the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority. To learn more environmentally-friendly tips, visit www.HoosiersCare.IN.gov.

About IDEM
IDEM (www.idem.in.gov) implements federal and state regulations regarding the environment. Through compliance assistance, incentive programs and educational outreach, the agency encourages and aids businesses and citizens in protecting Hoosiers and our environment.