Use Fireplace Ashes on Icy Walkways, Driveways

Use Fireplace Ashes on Icy Walkways, Driveways

As winter approaches, many people stock up on salt to de-ice their driveway and walkways. But the some 11 million tons of salt used on roads and walkways every year in the United States takes its toll on the planet. The salt ends up in groundwater every spring, and animals looking to lap up the salt that builds up along roadways often end up roadkill. There is, however, an alternative that many people usually throw out or compost: Fireplace ash.

While wood-burning fireplaces produce toxic emissions, EPA-certified wood stoves (including fireplace inserts) burn cleaner than the average wood fireplace, making them better for human health and the environment.

Click here to read our full article on Planet Green.

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Cara Smusiak
Cara believes using natural products and eliminating harsh or synthetic chemicals leads to a healthier, happier lifestyle. She grew up in a family that recycled just about everything, avoided harsh cleaners and heavily-scented products, and often turned to holistic medicine. Cara has degrees in art history and journalism, and has taken classes in environmental toxicology and environmental geology. She is passionate about healthy and natural living, environmental awareness and policy, and holistic health care.