As the effects of climate change become more noticeable, Vancouver's summers will get hotter and drier, putting pressure on the city's water resources. Artificial turf has evolved as a sustainable option to help preserve water while providing a lovely and practical outdoor space, as natural grass lawns require a substantial quantity of water to maintain their lush appearance. It can fundamentally alter how water conservation efforts are carried out in Vancouver, regardless of whether you are a homeowner, a company owner, or just someone interested in sustainable solutions. Here, we have gone into further detail on the water restrictions in Vancouver and how artificial turf can help conserve water in the dry summers of Vancouver.
What are the Water Restrictions in Vancouver?
During the summer, lawn watering accounts for a 50% rise in portable water use in the Metro Vancouver region of Canada. Water usage in the city is between 30-40% less than the regional averages because of the city's residents and their excellent outreach and enforcement efforts. Regardless of the weather, regional water consumption guidelines are applicable.
Residential Lawn Water Allowance
- Saturday mornings: Even-numbered addresses
- Sunday mornings: Odd-numbered addresses
- 5Am-7Am: Automatic watering
- 6Am-9Am: Manual watering
Non-Residential Lawn Watering Allowance
- Monday mornings: Even-numbered addresses
- Tuesday mornings: Odd-numbered addresses
- 4Am-6Am: Automatic watering
- 6Am-9Am: Manual watering
How can Artificial Turf Help Conserve Water in Vancouver?
As climate change continues to impact regions across the globe, water scarcity has become a pressing issue, especially during dry summers. Vancouver, known for its breathtaking landscapes and picturesque beauty, also faces challenges regarding water conservation during the dry summer months. Recently, artificial grass has gained popularity as a sustainable landscaping option, which helps conserve water while still providing a lush green appearance. With an increased demand for irrigation and outdoor water usage, the summer season can burden the local water supply. While natural lawns require a substantial amount of water to maintain their looks, making them a significant contributor to water consumption during dry seasons. Artificial turf, also known as synthetic turf or fake grass, offers a water-saving alternative that can help address this challenge.
Drought Resistant
Artificial grass by Premium Grass Blades is considered drought resistant as it not only saves water but its appearance also does not get affected by draught either. The water used for artificial turf is substantially less than what is needed for a natural lawn. Artificial grass does not depend on weather or climate to retain its vibrant colour and health.
Capable of Handling Heavy Traffic
Premium Grass Blades’ artificial grass can handle high foot traffic, adverse weather, and UV exposure without losing colour or texture. It indicates that artificial turf can persist for many years after installation, minimizing waste and the need for renewal. On the other hand, natural grass lawns frequently need to be reseeded or have sod replaced because of wear and tear from foot traffic or bad weather, which constrains more water for re-establishment. Residents of Vancouver can choose artificial grass for a long-lasting, low-maintenance landscaping option that saves water and has a minimal environmental impact.
No More Fertilizers or Pesticides
Also, using artificial turf reduces the need for pesticides and fertilizers. Fertilizers and pesticides are usually required to preserve the beauty and health of natural grass lawns. These substances bring the neighbourhood ecosystem and water supply into crisis by leaching into the soil and contaminating groundwater. Due to the synthetic fibres' dearth of supplementary nutrients requirement or insect prevention, artificial turf does not require these chemicals; this might support eco-friendly landscaping methods and safeguard Vancouver's water resources.
Reduced Irrigation
Artificial turf, unlike genuine grass, does not require frequent watering to remain healthy and bright. After installation, it can withstand the driest and hottest summers without further watering. While outdoor watering can make up a considerable extent of water use during dry spells, this can significantly reduce water consumption. Vancouver residents may enjoy lush and attractive surroundings with Premium Grass Blades' artificial turf, and that too, without having to use gallons of water.
Retain Moisture
Premium Grass Blades' artificial grasses have a porous backing that enables water to pass through the surface and into the earth below. It aids in preventing water runoff and puddling, ensuring that the soil and plants are effectively supplied with water; this is especially important in Vancouver, where runoff and water waste can occur from high rains during the wet season. During the dry summer months, artificial turf helps to maximize water retention, enabling effective water use and lowering the overall water demand.
Prevents Smog and Noxious Emissions
According to a recent study, lawnmowers are considered the crucial source of pollution that impairs lunch functioning, inhibiting plant growth and is the main ingredient of smog. The gas-powered push mower emits as much hourly pollution as 11 cars, and a riding mower emits as much as 34 cars. Moreover, it is estimated that over 17 million gallons of gas and oil are spilled each year from refuelling lawn equipment.
Minimal Maintenance
Artificial turf eliminates the requirement of costly and time-consuming lawn maintenance chores like watering, edging, and mowing. This can limit the use of equipment that consumes fuel and emits greenhouse gases while saving time and money. Furthermore, artificial turf is always green and immaculate, regardless of the weather, ensuring a stunning and well-kept environment without compelling ongoing maintenance. Businesses like hotels, resorts, and golf courses that need beautiful landscapes for their visitors but wish to reduce water usage and maintenance expenses might greatly benefit from this.
Storm Water Management
In encouraging good stormwater management, artificial grass can also aid in water conservation measures. When it rains heavily in Vancouver during the wet season, stormwater runoff can occur. This runoff can overflow the city's stormwater management systems leading to water contamination. Rainwater can permeate into the ground below and through the porous backing of artificial turf, minimizing the runoff and replenishing the groundwater table. This promotes proper stormwater management and prevents water waste, both of which are essential for water conservation efforts during dry summers.
How Much Water Can You Save With Synthetic Grass?
Now that you know the significant water savings the artificial grass lawn can provide, let us look more closely at those savings. In Vancouver, which frequently suffers dry weather, traditional natural grass needs roughly 20–30 litres of water per square meter per week to be healthy and green during the summer. It can result in enormous water demand throughout the season, which usually continues from June to September.
Alternatively, artificial grass does not require regular watering like natural grass, as it does not grow or have living roots requiring hydration. Artificial grass is made to be low-maintenance and may grow well without routine watering. Owners of synthetic grass in Vancouver may only sometimes use water to clean the surface or to cool it down on abnormally hot days during the dry summers.
Based on these factors, it is forestalled that switching from natural grass to synthetic grass, depending on the exact circumstances, can help save between 60 and 70% of the water used for irrigation. Artificial grass can be a water-saving solution that is kind to the environment, particularly in dry summer months in places like Vancouver, where water supplies are few.
Your Artificial Grass Specialist
Premium Grass Blades offers the best transformative landscape designs for lawn owners in Vancouver, Canada. As the city’s trusted artificial grass provider, we work with residential as well as commercial customers and contractors. We have a vast range of artificial grass for lawns, backyards, gardens, parks, sports fields, and more. Because we put special efforts into producing our products, we can provide a ten years warranty on our artificial turf. Visit our Facebook and Pinterest channels to explore the diverse turf designs and styles we provide.
