Living in the northeast, snow and ice buildup on roads and driveways during the winter is inevitable. I try to avoid using a de-icing product if possible, but sometimes it is unavoidable.
There are several options out there for de-icing, but most of them are not safe for the environment. So, before you run down to the hardware store to pick up a bag of de-icer, consider these factors:
The most common de-icing compound is rock salt, or sodium chloride. Rock salt is easy to find and effective, but, as it dissolves it releases a high amount of chloride into the environment. This chloride pollutes streams, rivers and lakes, kills vegetation, and corrodes metal (such as bridges and cars).
Rock salt is the main reason why my car needed a new gas tank and line last year, the original one completely rusted away.
Another de-icing salt is calcium chloride. Calcium chloride is also readily available and effective, working even at lower temperatures than rock salt, but still releases high levels of chloride into the environment and can cause skin irritation when using it. Calcium chloride can also break down the chemical composition of concrete driveways and walkways.
Two de-icing salts that are less detrimental to the environment are potassium chloride and magnesium chloride. They are said to release about 40% less chlorides that calcium chloride and sodium chloride, and as a result are less toxic to plants, trees, and waterways.
A greener alternative to salt is calcium magnesium acetate (CMA). CMA is salt-free, has a low toxicity, and is biodegradable.
If you don’t want to use salts or chemicals for de-icing around your home, consider some of these alternatives to help increase traction on the snow and ice:
-Sand
-Natural (Biodegradable) kitty litter
-Bird food
Icy streets and walkways can be dangerous. It’s important to know the impact of the products we use for de-icing, as well as the green alternatives available.
If you have any information to share please leave a comment, feedback is always appreciated.
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{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
Hi Sara,
Neither did I until I did the research. Some of it seems so obvious, ya know? Thanks for stopping by my site.
Jess
Really interesting article. I never knew there were different forms of salt that were less harmful to the environment. Also like the idea of using bird food for traction!