Mary Robinson - Free Response 1

For many people, a lush green lawn is a symbol of suburban perfection. It’s a place where kids can play, families can gather, and homeowners can show off their pride and joy. However, the pursuit of the perfect lawn has come at a cost. One of the most significant issues is the amount of water and resources required to maintain a perfect lawn. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, 30 to 60 percent of residential water use goes to outdoor watering, with much of it being used to maintain lawns. This is a significant drain on resources, particularly in areas where water is scarce. Additionally, many homeowners rely on chemical fertilizers and pesticides to keep their lawns looking green and weed-free, and these chemicals can be harmful to the environment. The idea that a perfect lawn is necessary or desirable has become very dominant in our society. I personally live in an area where there are not any manicured lawns because the main vegetation is sand, and there is not much grass at all. I never really thought about how lawns impact the environment, because all of the yards where I live are untouched and natural. The mentality of needing to have a perfect lawn can be toxic, creating an environment where appearances are more important than environmental sustainability. It’s important for homeowners to understand the drawbacks of lawn culture and make informed decisions about how to maintain their outdoor spaces.