Efforts to ban gas-powered leaf blowers are spreading across the United States, driven by concerns over noise and pollution, with actress Cate Blanchett emerging as a vocal advocate. More than 200 local governments have imposed restrictions or incentives for electric alternatives since the 1970s, accelerating after 2020. However, enforcement issues and costs for landscapers are complicating implementation.
The campaign against gas-powered leaf blowers has found an prominent supporter in Cate Blanchett, who in a March interview declared, “Leaf blowers need to be eradicated from the face of the Earth.” Her viral social media comments, including “It’s a metaphor for what’s wrong with us as a species,” highlight frustrations with the devices' noise and inefficiency, sentiments she has expressed for nearly 20 years.
Bans began in the 1970s, but gained momentum post-2020 pandemic as remote workers grew intolerant of the incessant whine. Today, over 200 U.S. local governments restrict gas-powered lawn tools or incentivize electric ones. California enacted a statewide ban on new gas blower sales in January 2024, while Portland and Baltimore phase out use. Wilmette, Illinois, imposes seasonal limits, and Colorado offers 30 percent discounts on electric equipment.
Health and environmental impacts fuel the push. The low-frequency roar exceeds the World Health Organization's 55-decibel limit up to 800 feet, causing stress, sleep disruption, and potential hearing damage. Emissions from two-stroke engines include fine particulates, smog gases, and carcinogens like benzene; one hour of use equals the smog from driving Los Angeles to Denver. In 2020, U.S. fossil-fueled lawn equipment emitted over 30 million tons of CO2, surpassing Los Angeles' total.
Yet challenges abound. Kirsten Schatz of CoPIRG notes, “With every year that passes, more and more communities across the country are taking action to address the shocking amount of pollution and noise from gas lawn equipment.” Enforcement lags, as in Westport, Connecticut, where seasonal rules go ignored due to police priorities and vague ordinances, per Jamie Banks of Quiet Communities.
Switching to electric is costlier for professionals: a gas blower costs $550, but electric equivalents run $700 plus thousands in batteries and chargers. Power limitations frustrate demands for quick, thorough cleanups. Political opposition includes Texas and Georgia laws blocking local bans, and oil industry campaigns in California.
In Evanston, Illinois, workers report harassment over violations. The American Green Zone Alliance warns that abrupt bans burden low-wage laborers. Founder Dan Mabe advocates incentives to offset thin margins, noting long-term savings on fuel and maintenance. Seasonal bans or relaxed lawn aesthetics—leaving leaves for ecological benefits—offer alternatives, as does manual raking.