New Jersey, with its beaches and lush green landscapes, is heading towards a greener future. The idea of the environment is taking grip and the state is experiencing a surge in sustainable landscape design. The green revolution is extremely important not only for the sake of the environment but also due to the numerous economic and social benefits. Thus, in this article, we will discuss the environmental benefits of sustainable landscape design in New Jersey and why it is crucial for the state’s future.
1. Reduction of Greenhouse Gas Emissions
The materials include a variety of local plants, native stones, and other ecologically friendly substances. This means they produce fewer greenhouse gases during both production and disposal owing to their carbon footprint. In addition, sustainable landscape design can significantly reduce New Jersey’s carbon emissions. Even as a part of the global effort to combat climate change, this change in local lifestyle will soon be felt by everyone worldwide. A University of Delaware study found that plant-native landscaping cuts off as much as 20% in carbon emissions.
2. Water Conservation
Another factor of sustainable landscape design in New Jersey is water conservation. The deficit of the state water supply determined the fact that there is not enough drinking water, and the current potable supply aims at 750 million gallons per day. Consequently, water-conserving practices used in landscaping of lots decrease the waste of such valuable resources. For example, according to the research of the Garden State Water Environment Association, a garden in New Jersey that is made up of native plants can use up to 60% less water than one made up of non-native plants.
3. Soil Erosion Prevention
In New Jersey, developing an architectural design that can last indefinitely also has the benefit of preventing soil erosion. Now, using a layer of natural stones and topsoil in the suburban landscape, soil can stick to its place through rainfall. Soil erosion might result in water pollution and reduced fertility of the soil. By preventing soil erosion, sustainable landscape planning can maintain soil health and maintain surface water that is free of contaminants. The state of New Jersey Soil Conservation Program estimates that soil erosion—Which is a problem in much of the state’s farmland—costs up to $200 million in productivity and water quality improvements.
4. Habitat Creation for Wildlife
Sustainable landscape design in New Jersey can help conserve wildlife by employing plants that need less water. According to select.audubon.org, less than 17 percent of plant species in New Jersey are threatened or vulnerable, so the choice of plant species can be made that will not require substantial water. In this regard, the New Jersey Audubon Society has compiled a list of native plants and helped with a guarantee of water saving. There is more proof through which we can analyze the use of sustainable landscaping in New Jersey.
5. Improved Property Values
Another reason to invest attention and money in NJ landscape design is the fact that it makes it more valuable. Houses that are surrounded by beautiful nature and taken care of accordingly are more attractive to buyers. According to the National Association of Realtors, homes with good-looking landscapes can be sold for as much as 15% more than those whose yards are empty. This way, people who live in New Jersey should not treat landscape design as a waste of money, since they can always sell their property for a bigger price.
Summary:
The landscape design trends in New Jersey are increasingly focusing on sustainability, offering numerous environmental benefits for the state and its residents. Limone Gardens is committed to promoting these sustainable practices, from reducing greenhouse gas emissions to conserving water and enhancing property values.
