The Challenge: Use a handheld broom instead of a gas-powered or electric leaf blower for your outdoor cleaning.
Why It Matters
Outdoor gas-powered tools cause surprising environmental harm:
- According to the California Air Resources Board (CARB), operating a gas-powered leaf blower for just one hour creates as much smog-forming pollution as driving a new car for over 1,100 miles.
(Source: CARB Small Engine Fact Sheet) - CARB also projects that by 2031, small engines like blowers will emit more ozone pollution than all passenger cars in California combined.
(Source: CARB Small Off-Road Engines Program) - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) highlights that nonroad engines (like garden blowers) significantly contribute to ground-level ozone and fine particle pollution.
(Source: EPA Nonroad Engines and Vehicles)
Besides air pollution, gas-powered blowers generate loud noise that disrupts both neighborhoods and wildlife.
Bonus: Health Benefits for You
Manual sweeping isn’t just eco-friendly — it’s healthy, too!
- The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week. Just 10–15 minutes of sweeping daily can help you meet this goal easily.
(Source: WHO Physical Activity Facts) - Sweeping engages your arms, core, and legs, improving muscle tone and cardiovascular health over time.
- Light outdoor exercise like sweeping can also boost mental health, reducing stress and improving mood.
By ditching the blower, you’re not just helping the planet — you’re also investing in your own well-being.
One Simple Action You Can Take
- Grab a handheld broom and sweep your driveway, patio, or sidewalk manually.
- Start with just one area, and make it a daily or weekly habit.
- Tip: Sweep during cooler parts of the day (early morning or evening) for a pleasant, low-stress routine.
How This Supports SDG 13
SDG 13: Climate Action calls for urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.
Small personal choices — like using a broom — reduce harmful emissions, conserve energy, and build healthier communities.
Take the Broom Challenge
Skip the blower for one month — sweep instead!
You’ll breathe cleaner air, move your body more, and help the planet with every sweep.