Aesthetics & practicality scoring over climate concerns
We asked: Why are people opting for paved patios rather than ‘green lawns’ when need for clean air is being felt like never before? Who is to be blamed for sheer disregard for Masterplan and development laws?
“The earth is what we all have in common.” In an era where the need for clear air is a priority, people are opting for paved patios. Though green lawns seem to be a better alternative, they have sheer consequences where the question of environment is at the forefront. In order to keep lawns green, lots of water is used. Lawn maintenance releases greenhouse grass which is a disaster as far as air pollution is concerned. Most conventional fertilizers used in green lawns are produced using ammonia, which is extracted from natural gas and two - thirds of natural gas is obtained by fracking. The actual use of fertilizers in green lawns also contributes to climate change. Nitrogen not used by plants is converted into nitrogen oxide, a greenhouse gas estimated to be approximately 300 times more plant than CO2. Thus, even though people like to look at and undivided expense of green grass, there is a terrible cost that play for this view - too much money, chemical and time to mention a few. In order to save the environment, we must stop cutting down trees, stop throwing garbage in rivers, stop polluting air. Air is being polluted due to the toxic emission from factories. In order to survive, these practices should be stopped and new explorations must be taken into account One day people will surely understand the value of nature when nothing will be left. They will realize that the only thing left behind is money which cannot be eaten. Ankita Pandey, Teacher (St. Xavier’s Convent School)
Generally, people prefer paving stones in their patios as pavers, as such stones are usually referred to, are much easier to maintain. Also, with the many kinds of paving stones available today in the market, there is no limit to the geometric designs that you can come up with by laying down the right combination of stones. A green lawn, though more commonly seen in our childhood, has somehow been relegated to the background with paving stones hogging the entire spotlight. Grass-covered green lawns are lush and more environmentally friendly. Nevertheless, a grass lawn can be difficultly to maintain in the fast-paced life of today. Many have even opted for synthetic grass like carpets that they can place on their roof gardens. Rather than pointing fingers at anyone, let us take a moment to try and understand the motivation behind the choice. Green lawns are ideally suited to people that have the time as well as the means of maintaining them properly. Pavers, on the other hand, seem a more practical choice for those hard-pressed to spare time for maintaining the greenery. All things said and done, Mother Nature still has an uncanny habit of taking over whenever she feels like. As a paved patio is made by the interlocking of different stones, there are spaces in between the stones. Sand is usually used to fill the gaps. At times, the sand gives way to weeds that create a green outline to the pavers. The need for fresh clean air is probably being felt more than ever before. While laying down a green lawn is one of the ways of addressing the issues, many a times it might not be practical enough for those involved. Sharmilla Rafat, Content Writer with an MNC
Topic of the month: Do you also think the recent outbreaks like COVID-19 are the warning signals of over-burdened, over-exploited Mother Nature? What should be our approach now? You may send your views in 200 words at treetakemagazine@gmail. Please also attach a colour photo of yourself.
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