I found last week’s opinion piece in TurfPro by Stephen Fell on the trend of No Mow May to be most interesting. 

I have known Stephen for well over 25 years, having first met him in my role of editor, to talk about his turf growing business, Lindum Turf. Based in North Yorkshire, the company boasts that they grow a range of turf products on stone-free, sandy loam soils to “rigorously high, certified standards.” 

Having read his comments on No Mow May, I am personally inclined to agree with several points Stephen has made.

The principal fact that I most strongly advocate, is that only leaving the grass to grow long for the four weeks of May is not going to establish a plethora of wild flowers.

You can re-read what Stephen said in full on our website, but his conclusion on the majority of British lawns left to grow out for a month is, “they simply get longer and stragglier while trying to put up seed heads.” This he says, is “not a pretty sight” and crucially leads to “no biodiversity increase at all.” 

For me, attitudes have changed greatly in recent years in regard of lawn care. It seems that apart from a few die-hard amateurs and dedicated professionals, many people do very little to their lawns other than cut them on a weekly-to-two weekly cycle. Most lawns I now see are full of weeds and rogue grasses.  

The days of the well stripped, weed free lawns are slowly diminishing. I believe this is in large part to people not having the time, resources and knowledge to produce the perfect lawn. 

What is a perfect lawn?  

A perfect lawn is subjective and can vary depending on personal preferences and cultural norms. Generally, a perfect lawn is one that is well-maintained, healthy, lush, and green. It should have uniform grass coverage, be free from weeds, pests, and diseases, and have a smooth, even texture.

Achieving a perfect lawn often requires regular mowing, watering, fertilising, and pest control. Proper lawn care practices, such as aerating, dethatching, and overseeding, may also be necessary to keep the lawn in top condition. Ultimately, what constitutes a perfect lawn may differ from person to person, but it typically reflects a well-cared-for and visually appealing outdoor space.

There are plenty of lawn books that give advice on achieving a decent lawn. One of the best I have read is The Lawn Guide written by turf consultant, Phillip Sharples. 

However, people’s perceptions of a perfect lawn have also changed greatly in the last ten years. The fact is people have very little spare time and generally see the job of looking after the lawn as a chore. So, in many cases, the lawn gets very little attention other than a weekly or fortnightly mowing. 

For me the best lawn areas are ones that have a wide range of cutting heights and management regimes - like how golf courses are presented these days, with finely manicured greens and tees with areas of fringing rough, semi rough and permanent rough, plus wildflower areas.  

Returning to Stephen’s main point that there would be no significant biodiversity gains in not mowing the grass for a month and then cutting it back down to a regular mowing height, the only way you will achieve a beneficial rewilding area is committing to a longer-term strategy.

It is all about selecting the right location and carrying out the necessary ground preparations to provide the right environment for the scheme to be successful.

Use the margins of a lawn to produce a full wildflower effect, which can be achieved via a wildflower turf or by sowing wildflower seeds. Or, for those who want to go a step further, replacing a lawn with a species-rich turf that includes a blend of hardy grasses and wildflowers to create a truly biodiverse area.

Rewilding is an ecological concept and conservation strategy that aims to restore and conserve natural ecosystems by reintroducing native species, restoring natural processes, and protecting large wilderness areas. The goal of rewilding is to increase biodiversity, restore ecological balance, and create resilient landscapes that can sustain themselves over time.

Key components of rewilding include:

Species reintroduction: This involves reintroducing species that have been extirpated (locally extinct) from an area, often due to human activity. By reintroducing these species, the natural balance of ecosystems can be restored.

Habitat restoration: Rewilding often involves restoring degraded habitats to their natural state. This can include activities such as reforestation, wetland restoration, and removing invasive species.

Ecological processes: Rewilding aims to restore natural ecological processes, such as predation, herbivory, and seed dispersal, which play crucial roles in maintaining ecosystem health and functioning.

Connecting wilderness areas: Creating corridors between fragmented wilderness areas allows for the movement of species, promoting genetic diversity and facilitating natural ecosystem processes.

Reducing human impact: Rewilding also involves reducing or mitigating human impacts on ecosystems, such as minimising habitat destruction, pollution, and overexploitation of resources.

Overall, rewilding seeks to create self-sustaining ecosystems that can support a wide range of native species and provide ecosystem services to both wildlife and humans.

As with any form of rewilding scheme it involves a lot of time and effort to ensure it achieves its objectives. 

In recent years we have seen a plethora of turf suppliers developing a range of wildflower and perennial seed mixes and modified wildlflower turf products. These have driven the popularity of creating wildflower areas. Which as we all know, has been beneficial for pollinating insects and increasing biodiversity.

Husqvarna Group have announced that they have successfully halved their absolute CO2 emissions compared to the 2015 baseline year - at the same time as the business's sales has increased by 47 percent.

Carbon is one of Husqvarna Group’s three Sustainability targets, together with Circular and People, with a -35% CO2 reduction target by 2025. The carbon target is approved by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), reflecting the Group’s commitment of doing its fair share to limit the global temperature rise by maximum 1.5° C. By the end of March 2024, Husqvarna Group’s CO2 emissions were down by -51% across the whole value chain (Scope 1, 2 and 3) since base year 2015. During the same period, net sales have increased 47% from SEK 36,2bn to SEK 53,3bn.

Husqvarna Group say their key efforts to reduce carbon emissions are as follows:
 
Reducing emissions from product use 

More than 90% of the Group’s total emissions occur during customers’ use of products. To be able to lead the industry in low-carbon solutions, a systematic approach for electrification is key. By 2026, the Group’s ambition is to increase the share of electrified products sold to two-thirds. Since 2015 the share of electrified motor driven products has grown from 11% to 43%.
 
Reducing emissions from own operations 
Lowering CO2 emissions through more efficient production, sourcing renewable electricity, driving electric vehicles, or by heating buildings with renewable energy sources.
 
Collaborating with suppliers 
Apart from collaborating with strategic suppliers in CO2 reduction initiatives, suppliers are requested to report carbon reduction strategies, their work with science-based targets and measure and report CO2 emissions to the CDP (global disclosure system). 
 
More efficient transportation 
Transport is optimised through better logistics network, smarter packaging and improved supply and demand planning alongside an accelerating shift to sea and road from air cargo. 
 
Calle Medin, head of Sustainability at Husqvarna Group said, “Throughout the years we have invested in products and solutions fit for a low-carbon economy. Halving our CO2 emissions is thanks to bold and wise decisions that decreased our CO2 impact and created new business opportunities. The demand for our battery-driven products and especially robotic lawn mowers is constantly increasing, whilst CO2 emissions are going down."

Organisers the GMA have announced the theme for this year's SALTEX, which is returning for its 78th edition, as “Uniting the Industry, Powering Progress.”

The Association says this year’s theme is all about powering the industry. They said in a statement, "SALTEX enables the industry to continually progress by bringing together people from all around the world and helping drive innovation, education, and networking."

Geoff Webb, CEO of the GMA explained, “Each year, SALTEX plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of grounds care. This year, we are focusing on uniting the industry and powering progress by providing a platform for professionals to connect, learn, and advance their skills.” 

This year’s show features a programme including the Learning LIVE schedule, where visitors can hear from the industry’s leading experts, as well as grounds care professionals from the country’s top sports grounds, covering industry hot topics. There will also be opportunities to speak with grassroots pitch advisors from the GMA and representatives from the National-Governing Bodies to receive technical advice as well as guidance on accessing much-needed funding and ways to upskill through the Grounds Management Framework. This is in addition to the opportunities to network, earn CPD points and speak to experts offering career advice. 

This year’s event is set to take place from 30th to 31st October at the NEC Birmingham,

Avant Tecno, manufacturer of compact loaders, is embarking on a quest to uncover the oldest Avant machine still in operation in the United Kingdom. 

As part of its celebrations marking 25 years of operations in the UK, the manufacturer is calling upon owners to come forward and showcase their enduring machines.

"Do you own the oldest working Avant loader in the country?” said Raimo Ala-Korpi, managing director of Avant UK. “We're on a quest to find the longest-serving Avant loader still in operation, and we need your help!”

The company says the search for the oldest loader in the UK not only aims to identify a piece of machinery with longevity but also serves as a tribute to the brand's journey over the past quarter-century in the UK market. Raimo expressed his pride and delight at the expansion of the UK market for Avant Tecno, saying "We are thrilled to see how much the UK market has expanded over the past 25 years."

The company says if you believe you own the oldest working Avant loader in the UK, don't hesitate to reach out and become a part of their celebrations.

The Bernhard Academy, established in 2019, has expanded to four hubs across the UK and USA, offering personal and professional development for sports turf professionals.

Join us in developing technical workshops to enhance industry skills. We seek a motivated individual to create, manage, and deliver these workshops. National and international travel is required.

Role:

• Develop and deliver world-class learning programmes in Technical Training and Equipment Management
• Review and adapt programmes for best practices
• Collaborate with internal and external teams to execute opportunities
• Lead team meetings to maximise productivity
• Embody the Bernhard Academy's objectives

Person:

• Strong technical background in sports turf equipment maintenance
• Coordination and event experience
• Excellent communication skills
• Ability to prioritise tasks
• Teamwork and leadership experience
• Organisational and detail-oriented
• Solution-oriented mindset
• Willingness to travel
• Committed to personal and professional growth

Full-time position with competitive salary and benefits, including holiday, pension, life insurance, and hybrid working arrangement (offices in Rugby and Haverhill).

Send CV and cover letter to recruitment@bernhard.co.uk

Closing date: 7th June 2024

Link to job posting: https://bernhard.co.uk/careers/

WE MUST NOT BE THE CREATORS OF OUR OWN DOWNFALL

RENOVATIONS ON TOUR

A WORRYING TIME FOR PARKS

CONSEQUENCES OF THE CONDITIONS

STILL DELIVERING QUALITY GREEN SPACES

WATCH OUT!

THE VALUE OF SPRING RENOVATIONS

FULLY LOADED ARMOURY

THE VALUE OF TREES

WE MUST SPEAK WITH ONE VOICE

COUNCIL SERVICES IN DECLINE

INVESTING IN NATURAL GRASS PITCHES

WORRY OF WEATHER CLOSURES

BUSY & BUZZY BTME

A VERY PARTICULAR SET OF SKILLS

COPING WITH CLIMATE CHANGES

View all of 2023's blogs here

View all of 2022's blogs here

View all of 2021's blogs here

View all of 2020's blogs here

View all of 2019's blogs here

View all of 2018's blogs here

IS IT TIME TO SAY NO TO 'NO MOW MAY'?
Any real benefits?

SUSTAINABILITY IN OUR PARKS & PUBLIC GREEN SPACES
Meeting the challenge

THE PATH TO WIMBLEDON
For groundstaff member, Conrad Cavil

ON TEST
EGO LBP8000E backpack blower

SUSTAINABILITY IN THE LAWN CARE SECTOR
A key consideration

BEEKEEPING IN COMMERCIAL ENVIRONMENTS
The current situation

SUSTAINABLE PRACTICE IN THE AMENITY SUPPLY SECTOR
Optimising land use through integrated solutions

SUSTAINABILITY IN THE GOLF SECTOR
Focus on BIGGA

THE SEARCH FOR SUSTAINABLE PRACTICE
Bringing together key points

DEVELOPING SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS FOR GOLF
R&A are supporting clubs

GETTING THE MOST OUT OF EVERY POUND OF BUDGET
A course manager's view

A NEWFOUND APPRECIATION FOR ALL VOLUNTEERS
Who look after grassroots pitches

SUSTAINABILITY & THE UK ACTION PLAN
For weed, pest and disease management

CONCERN FOR PARKS FOLLOWING COUNCIL BANKRUPTCIES
What does the future hold?

TAKING A GLOBAL LOOK AT SUSTAINABILITY
Is the rest of the world also driving towards sustainable practice?

RENOVATIONS, PLAY AND THANKS
On my mind this week

SUSTAINABILITY – IMPLICATIONS FOR TRAINING & EDUCATION
Set to play a crucial role going forward

TULIP TREE
Liriodendron tulipifera

LYDIA BROOM
Genista lydia

THE LAWN AND ITS VALUE
Changing attitudes

GIANT HOGWEED
Invasive and potentially harmful

LIFE-CYCLE ANALYSIS & SUSTAINABILITY
Considering every stage of the journey

NITROGEN USE EFFICIENCY
The most important nutrient

BERBERIS THUNBERGII
A shrub that has stood the test of time

ENSURING FUTURE PROSPERITY
Advice imparted at road shows

INNOVATION & SUSTAINABILITY
A key focus

PHOTINA RED ROBIN
A sensational flowering shrub

VALUING THE GRASSROOTS
We must not overlook those who maintain these grounds

MANAGING WEEDS SUSTAINABLY
In amenity spaces

DETECTING NUTRIENT DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS
In turf plants

SPRING RENOVATIONS UNDERWAY
A crucial period

SUSTAINABILITY IN SUPPLY
A focus on those who supply essential inputs to our sector

CHANGING CLIMATE
Is a borehole the key for clubs?

SUSTAINABILITY AT THE SHARP END
How to put into practice when budgets are tight?

ANOTHER NAIL IN THE COFFIN OF GRASSROOTS RUGBY
Clubs are struggling

SUSTAINABILITY IN PRACTICE
Seeking transparent and robust supply chains is essential

TIME FOR ACTION
To reverse recruitment crisis

CONTROLLING COSTS
Planning is crucial

THE SEARCH FOR SUSTAINABILITY
What exactly does the term mean?

CARING FOR THE GRASSROOTS
From volunteers to contractors

DEFRA IS LETTING DOWN THE COUNTRY
Complete failure to address the plastic grass debate

WE CAN ALL DO MORE
To aid biodiversity

MY LIFE IN GREENKEEPING
With Bruce Cruickshank

LEVELLING UP, GETTING SMARTER & GETTING AHEAD
Parks require so much more funding

SWITCHED ON FOR HARD WORK
Putting trimmers through their paces

MACHINERY HIGHLIGHTS
At this year's show

MY SALTEX
Daniel Lewis​, Manchester City Football Club

AWASH WITH LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES
Two months till showtime

LOOKING BACK, LOOKING FORWARD
Priorities for the amenity sector

THE DECLINE OF ‘PARKITECTURE’
A symptom of the state of parks in 2022

DEVELOPERS SHIRKING GREEN SPACE RESPONSIBILITIES
Lack of financial commitment

TIME TO COME TOGETHER
For the good of the industry

THE DEATH OF GRASS ROOTS CRICKET
Gathering apace?

ROUTES INTO THE INDUSTRY MUST BE ENSURED
Q&A with David Fisher, Lantra’s head of industry partnerships

STRONG VIEWS ON CRICKET PITCH PERFORMANCE MARKING
A bone of contention

A PREMIUM PRODUCT
Delivered at Naas Golf Club

THE GREEN REVOLUTION
And Esker Hills

MAKING A CHANGE
Laytown and Bettystown Golf Links

A DAY AT THE RACES
Naas Race Course

WORKING TOGETHER AS ONE VOICE
How the industry needs to proceed

OVER 175 YEARS OF EDUCATION
Wesley College

ELECTRIC EXCITEMENT
Dennis's Ian Howard talks electrification

THE HOME OF CORK GAA
Páirc Uí Chaoimh

LONG POLE BATTERY HEDGE TRIMMERS TESTED
STIHL HLA 66 and HLA 86

OVER 800 YEARS OF HISTORY
Johnstown Castle and Gardens

A CLUB GONE WILD
Kilkenny Golf Club

A GOLF COURSE IN THE GARDEN OF IRELAND
Woodenbridge GC

80 YEARS YOUNG
Charleville Golf Club

AN UPLIFTING EXPERIENCE
Bunclody Golf & Fishing Club

GETTING BACK TOGETHER
Albeit gradually . .

GO WEST
Inishturk GAA pitch – one of the most westerly sportspitches in Europe

WORKING ON A TIGHT BUDGET
Nenagh Golf Club

ON A MISSION
Wrekin Golf Club aiming to enrich wildlife and fauna

WILD AND WONDERFUL
Design By Nature

LEARNING HOW TO SURVIVE
Abbey Par 3

TACKLING OBESITY
Vital that schools can provide sport

A LIFETIME OF LEARNING
Vital for turf professionals

CELEBRATING 125 YEARS
Tullamore Golf Club

UNIVERSITY CHALLENGES
At Trinity College Dublin

BLENDING THE OLD WITH THE NEW
Bray Golf Club

A WELL POLISHED COURSE!
Ierne Social And Sports Club

IDENTIFYING THE TRUE VALUES
Of grounds maintenance

THE INDUSTRY WILL CHANGE & ADAPT
But it will survive

WIRRAL GOLF COURSES SAVED
Renewed hope and optimism for the future

GREEN SPACE CONTRIBUTION TO WELLBEING IS UNDERVALUED
Parks invisible on national agenda

A SHINING LIGHT IN IRELAND'S SUNNY SOUTHEAST
Wexford Golf Club

GREEN SPACES DO NOT LOOK AFTER THEMSELVES!
Keith Kent says we must invest in people

WE SHOULD TELL THE WORLD ABOUT THE UK INDUSTRY
Right time for all sides to come together

SOIL LIFE IS PRECIOUS
Good-quality soil can help save the planet

MORE THAN JUST CUTTING GRASS
Encouraging the next generation

A BUZZ FROM DOING THE JOB
Wide experience of the turf grass industry

PAYING THEIR WAY
Low wages is the bane of the industry

AMENITY MANAGEMENT IMPACTS US ALL
Professor John Moverley

CARING FOR PARKS OF ALL TYPES
Mary Worrall

TOP FIVE FRUSTRATIONS FOR CRICKET GROUNDSMEN
What causes you the most frustration in your role?

PROFESSIONALS AT THE CUTTING EDGE
Vic Demain and Phil Sharples

BOWLS CLUBS IN PERIL
A sad decline

A VERY SPECIAL INDUSTRY
Loz looks back

SNEAK PEAK AT A ROBOTIC "GAME CHANGER"
Commercial model capable of covering 50,000 m2 teased

HALESOWEN PICK A BIG ROBOT UP FRONT
Invest in mowers

COMPRESSED AERATION
The new way

PARKS MATTER MORE THAN EVER
Recent sector developments

ON TEST
STIHL blowers

THREE CORE VALUES TO SHAPE OUR INDUSTRY
Real concerns for the future

ENGLAND'S GREEN SPACE GAP
A split along racial lines

ON TEST
EGO STX3800 strimmer with RTX2300 Rotocut head

A SECTOR FACING IMPORTANT TIMES
Review of the National Action Plan

PARKS MATTER
The role of public parks in the recovery: a discussion paper

A UNIQUE SPORTING VENUE
Wormsley private estate

A BTME OUTDOORS?
A good bet for the industry

PARKS NEED APPROPRIATE POLITICAL REPRESENTATION
Q&A with Philippa Reece, Parks and Foreshore Manager at Adur and Worthing Council

CRICKET LOAM
What does it mean?

A HERCULEAN EFFORT TO GET PARKS BACK TO NORMAL
Q&A with Chris Worman, Rugby Borough Council’s parks and ground manager

ON TEST
STIHL battery products

TURFGRASS STRESS MANAGEMENT
Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) and antioxidants during biotic and abiotic stress in turfgrass plants

AUTUMN DISEASE MANAGEMENT
The coming months are going to prove very difficult

THE ABUSE OF PARKS . .
Is the abuse of society

WHY PARKS MATTER?
A statement from the Parks Management Forum to the Prime Minister

THE 21st CENTURY PARKS MANAGER
Innovative, creative and entrepreneurial

EAT, SLEEP, CUT, REPEAT!
Cricket under covid

TIME FOR A SINGLE SHOW?
Debate brought back into focus

A CHALLENGING TWO MONTHS
Running golf design projects from home

PRESSURE SITUATION
Cementing the reputation

A CLUB TO BE PROUD OF
10 years at the helm of Olton GC

GAME CHANGERS IN TURFCARE
The day the Lord's outfield reconstruction proved its worth

THE ESSENCE OF ESSENTIAL
Finding a sensible way forward on defining "essential maintenance"

THAT WAS THE YEAR THAT WAS
2001

HOW TO LOOK AFTER A GOLF COURSE WITH NO GOLFERS
Fundamental to the survival of almost all courses, if not of the game itself

RAIN STOPPED PLAY WOULD BE WELCOME
. . along with ‘lunch is being taken early’

PHYSICAL CONTROL OF TURFGRASS PESTS
An urgent problem

A DIVERSE & ENTERTAINING WEEK
Successful BTME 2020

INTEGRATED PEST CONTROL
Opportunity to embrace new methods

ENVILLE ON THE UP
Major investments taking place

GREEN FLAG AWARDS 2019
A great success

U.S PROFESSIONAL EQUIPMENT SHOW EXCELS
Buoyant GIE+EXPO

LEGACY OF THE SOLHEIM CUP
At Gleneagles

A DAY OUT WITH THE LADIES
Behind the scenes at the Solheim Cup

COVENTRY UNIVERSITY'S EDIBLE GARDEN SUCCESS
2006 - present

HAIL THE GRASS MASTERS!
Boorish media comments about pitch quality are wide of the mark

CONTRACTOR SEES MULTI-DISCIPLINE SUCCESS
360 Ground Care serving professional facilities

BUSY TIMES
Judging the Green Flag Awards

TAKING AN INTEGRATED APPROACH
What does it all mean in managing turf surfaces?

UNDER PRESSURE
Dry weather conditions continue to keep turf managers focused on moisture management

EDDIE SEAWARD
Death of Wimbledon’s influential grounds manager

MAJOR NEW IRRIGATION PROJECT
At Top 100 classic Berkhamsted Golf Club

NEW HORIZONS FOR THE HATTERS
Investment paying off at Kenilworth Road

ELIZABETHAN RESTORATION
At Castle Bromwich Hall Gardens

WHAT IS BIOPHILIA?
The vital impact of parks and green spaces on health and well-being

WORM CONTROL
Without carbendazim

THE TRUE COST OF PETROL
Battery-powered outdoor power tools are now turning the heads of professionals

SANDS OF TIME
Sand-based pitches are now the norm in professional sports

WHY DO WE DO THE RIGHT THING?
We must maintain industry standards

CHASING GRASS PERFECTION?
11 things you need to know . . .

MAINTAINING STANDARDS
Q&A with BASIS ceo, Stephen Jacobs

STRI RESEARCH DAY 2018
Hosted at research trial grounds in Bingley

THE MECHANIC
Leicester City FC invest in new role

LORD'S 'GRASS-GUVNOR' TO RETIRE
Mick Hunt bows out after 49 years

HOLLOW CORING & DEEP SCARIFICATION
Is it really necessary?

In 2023, I wrote a series of monthly articles, and their key purpose was to help all readers increase their understanding of sustainability, learn from the experiences of others and help them deliver sustainable practice in their own organisations and operations. In this new series, I am taking the opportunity each month to look in more depth at individual organisations. How are they seeking to be more sustainable and, importantly, how are they seeking to advise and support members or customers?

This month we focus on the landscaping sector based upon discussions with BALI and a selection of its members.

The landscaping industries and organisations form a very important and substantial element of amenity activity. They provide a wide range of services to private households, commercial establishments, and public-sector entities. Implementing a proper planned approach to the management of these hard and green spaces is a key activity. Without maintained facilities the consequences would be substantial in economic, environmental and social terms. 
In 2019, Oxford Economics published a study which illustrated just how important landscaping is in economic terms. The estimate then was that the UK ornamental horticulture and landscaping sector contributed some £25 billion to Gross Domestic Product (GDP). A further study in 2021, published by the Ornamental Horticulture Roundtable Group (OHRG), forecast that this would be at least £42 billion by 2030 supporting some 760000 jobs. So, an important sector indeed and one, like every other set of organisations, looking to address the sustainable agenda whilst at the same time matching client and public demands for quality and fit for purpose spaces.

 
SUSTAINABILITY WITHIN BALI

Wayne Grills is CEO of BALI (British Association of Landscape Industries) and he is very aware of the need for sustainable practice in both how his own membership body operates and amongst its members. Currently the BALI board are putting together a comprehensive sustainability plan but, in the meantime, Wayne has put a strong focus on sustainable practice in operational matters at BALI. There has been a full review of paper flow and the types of paper used.  Circulation to members using high gloss plastic has been stopped although, whilst there is a strong move to digital in communicating with members, some still very much prefer hard copy and so BALI continues to produce some printed copy, albeit in much smaller volumes. The decision was taken some time ago to move to compostable give-a-way bags used very much at shows and events. It was more expensive then but, as developments have continued, it is now turning out cheaper! LED bulbs in the offices are now the norm as is recycling and sustainable water cups. Whilst in person meetings still take place, there is now much greater use of online.

As regards vehicles, BALI have two electric cars. For longer journeys finding charging points can be challenging but Wayne is quick to point out the savings in running costs already made. A task and finish group, focussed on sustainable practice, has already looked at a number of other options, all being evaluated. These include the use of air source heat pumps, further development of CRM (Customer Relationship Manager) systems, increased events online, not using plastic name badges at physical events and, for their annual major awards event, insisting on an emphasis on sustainability on menu choices at the Grosvenor House venue. Online membership renewal is another option although accompanied by letters for those not using email frequently. Wayne recognises that these may seem small steps but important. He also recognises the BALI responsibility to encourage and support sustainable practice amongst its members. That is where BALI’s sustainability plan is so important and a current priority.

PLANT CHOICE AND HARD SURFACES

From discussions with some BALI members and others, it is very clear that the sustainability agenda is very much to the fore in their actions and planning. Government and public pressure demands this. At the same time, individual organisations need to balance such matters with client expectations. This is not always an easy task. From my discussions, I have identified some of the changes in thinking and in the rest of this article will summarise just some of those highlighted.
 
In terms of plant choice, there is a clear move towards using native plants. By definition these have evolved and adapted to an area’s environmental conditions. So, it seems logical that they can thrive with less human aid than non-native. There is also a move to use plants in design schemes which require less maintenance and less inputs of fertiliser, pesticides and the like. Where hard surfaces are being considered in terms of paths and other such areas, there is a definite move to permeable surfaces rather than tarmac or concrete. An impervious surface creates run off increasing flood risk and pollution of drainage systems. By definition, a permeable surface allows water to soak away reducing pressure and pollution in drains as more water naturally seeps into the ground. Of course, permeable surfacing may not always prove practical in terms of mode of use but it certainly is regarded as more sustainable.

WATER CONSERVATION AND ENERGY

With growing populations, we all recognise the need to conserve fresh water. Although water covers 71% of the Earth, only a fraction of that water is freshwater with the majority of that (about 68.7%) in glaciers and ice caps. Whilst salt water can be turned into fresh, it is a high energy process. So, whilst clearly plants require water, it is important in landscaping to fully consider the best methods of reducing water loss as well as limiting use. There has been much effort in recent years in grass and plant breeding to produce species more tolerant to both drought and flooding. Where possible, landscaping schemes can incorporate rain harvesting. Collecting rainwater from rooves can have a significant impact. For example, if the roof section that drains into receiving containers is 10 square metres in size, rain collection can be circa 150 litres after just 1.25 cms or half an inch of rain. 

In new designs for offices or homes, landscape lighting can be seen as a key feature. However instead of connecting this to electricity or other external energy source, solar power can be the solution. The technology and design of solar panels and the like is developing at pace and, in one design shared with me in researching for this article, solar panels were skilfully part of the gardens design.

 
BIODIVERSITY

A major feature of last year’s Chelsea Flower Show and other events was a focus on wildlife gardens with features designed to increase biodiversity. Such gardens still need management and maintenance but as part of a design can have huge advantages in providing space for, and encouraging, wildlife as well as supporting pollinators essential for many plants.

The importance of lawns and green spaces designs, especially in urban areas, cannot be overstated but here too, seeking to make them more sustainable is key and a growing trend. As highlighted in a previous article, much can be done here ensuring green spaces are established properly. Too often the lay out of turf on housing developments is seen as the last task when budgets are expended. Speaking to a major turf supplier company recently, they expressed their frustration that too often their quality turf was laid on ill prepared surfaces. This needs to change. Once established sustainable practice involves proper management, use of slow-release fertilisers and the like.

CONCLUSIONS

These are just some of the ways landscaping businesses have highlighted as factors in more sustainable practice. Yet there is much more to do. Again, balancing public expectations from landscaping with this agenda is not always easy. Increasingly pressure will increase for all of us to be more sustainable. National targets already exist, and most local authorities have adopted climate action programmes and drivers.  The landscaping sector is important, is responding and I am sure will continue to do so. Emerging from all the discussions that I have highlighted here and in others, they indicate a real willingness to engage in sustainable practice. It is seen as less of a challenge but more an opportunity. The key is determining how best not just to implement sustainable practice but also demonstrating this. In reality much is already being done. Too often the amenity sector can be criticised, yet so much is being done. Everybody involved needs to say that.

Wayne Grills, in our discussions, was clear on the importance of his sector taking a lead in implementing sustainable practice and a determination for BALI to seek to co-ordinate and be a voice for this. As often cited in these articles sustainable practice is best practice. We do not seek revolution but small step change to the right outcomes. 

Next month’s article will focus on the machinery supply sector using Kubota as a case study.

Previous articles in this series

SUSTAINABILITY IN THE GOLF SECTOR

SUSTAINABLE PRACTICE IN THE AMENITY SUPPLY SECTOR

SUSTAINABILITY IN THE LAWN CARE SECTOR

SUSTAINABILITY IN OUR PARKS & PUBLIC GREEN SPACES