There is an interesting story today in our news, regarding the impact that garden machinery use has in the arena of noise pollution.

It's reported that a study has found that noise pollution generated by petrol-powered outdoor equipment, "heavily exceeds the daily exposure limit of 87dB(A) set by the UK Government’s Health and Safety Executive." Which is a concerning, and indeed problematic, statistic.

Before progressing though, I think it's always import to take into account when dealing with stories like this, that rely on findings from a new survey, to consider who commissioned the research and what their agenda would be in doing so?

In this case, the news has come from a campaign group called Challenge25, who are a body set up in 2020 by EGO. That's battery powered outdoor powered machinery manufacturer, EGO.

EGO are up front about their group's aims though, saying their desire is to "educate and empower domestic and professional outdoor power equipment users, urging them to switch from petrol-powered tools."

It's fair to say then, that the commissioners of the report most definitely have a dog in this race. It hasn't come from a neutral standpoint, rather one looking to back up their already well-established and clearly defined agenda.

So whilst I do think that it's important to bare this mind when considering their findings, it does appear that the point they are making is a legitimate one. Noise pollution is a real health concern on multiple fronts and, importantly for dealers, one that it appears will be become increasingly legislated upon. Just look at the banning of 'gas powered' garden tools in California, with further U.S states now following their lead.

Emma Gayler, ambassador for Challenge 2025, says in the news story today, “Far more awareness needs to be made across the industry to help protect gardening professionals from the dangers of being exposed to high levels of noise pollution."

It is certainly an issue that one feels dealers will need to stay on top of, as regulations inevitably tighten. Perhaps it could even be an area that dealers could look to get ahead of the curve regarding, in order to find favour with both their professional and domestic customers.

There are already stringent noise regulations in the UK, non-compliance with which can result in legal consequences for both businesses and individuals. By a dealership offering quieter machinery options, they will not only meet regulatory standards now and in the future, but would also be contributing to the overall reduction of noise pollution in the local community. This proactive approach could build trust with customers and establish the dealership as one that values not just sales, but the overall impact that its products have on the community.

Clearly the machinery options that dealerships sell are constantly innovating and evolving. That's very much a consequence of manufacturers responding to both customer demand and to legislation. One feels that as we move forward, noise reduction will be one of the areas at the forefront of that machinery evolution.

For dealers to be seen to embrace and promote quieter technologies, not only are they addressing current concerns but they could also be argued to be future-proofing the business against ever-changing environmental regulations and customer preferences. It seems sensible not just from a 'doing-the-right-thing' perspective, but from a profit-making one in the future too.

Dealers have an opportunity to champion change by prioritising quieter options, educating customers, and contributing to a healthier, more pleasant community and environment.