In a move that has sparked debate and divided opinions, the Colorado Air Quality Control Commission has adopted a new rule that will prohibit state agencies from using specific gas-powered lawn equipment during the summer months.

The regulation, set to take effect from June to August, targets gas-powered lawn equipment with engines of 25 horsepower or less, aiming to curb emissions and improve air quality in the region.

Under the new rule, state agencies operating within the Denver Metro and North Front Range ozone nonattainment area will also be restricted from using gas-powered push lawnmowers and other lawn equipment with engines under 10 horsepower on public property. This geographical area encompasses the Denver metro area and stretches northward through Larimer and Weld counties, reflecting the Commission's commitment to addressing air quality concerns in high-impact zones.

Democrats implemented these restrictions following the recommendations of the CoPIRG Foundation, a nonprofit organization that highlighted the significant environmental impact of gas-powered lawnmowers and related equipment.

According to their report, these devices were responsible for generating an estimated 671 tons of fine particulate pollution in 2020 alone, equivalent to the emissions produced by over 7 million cars.

CoPIRG's report underscored the contribution of lawn equipment to ozone-forming volatile organic compounds and nitrogen oxides, totaling 9,811 tons and 1,969 tons annually, respectively. The Democrat led commission believed these figures underscore the pressing need for regulatory action to address the environmental implications of gas-powered lawn equipment use and mitigate their adverse effects on air quality and public health.

READ MORE:

• COLORADO REGULATORS NOT TO BAN SALES OF GAS-POWERED LAWN AND GARDEN EQUIPMENT – FOR NOW

• PROPOSAL TO BAN GAS LAWN MOWER SALES IN THE DENVER AREA IS SEVERELY CUT BACK

• DEMOCRATS HAVE PLANS FOR YOUR LAWN

• COLORADO SENATE PASSES BILL LIMITING NONFUNCTIONAL TURF PLANTING: A DEMOCRAT OVERREACH ON LOCAL CONTROL

While the regulation is set to go into effect in 2025, discussions surrounding its impact on state agencies, landscaping practices, and environmental conservation efforts continue to unfold.

Proponents of the ban emphasize the importance of reducing emissions and protecting the environment, while critics raise concerns about the practicality and feasibility of transitioning to alternative lawn care solutions.