The study by Jamie L. Banks and Robert McConnell examines emissions from gasoline-powered lawn and garden equipment in the U.S., highlighting their significant contribution to air pollution, particularly VOCs and fine particulates from two-stroke engines. These emissions pose health risks, prompting calls for better reporting and policies to reduce impact and promote cleaner alternatives.

The letter to the Eastchester Town Board supports a ban on gasoline-powered leaf blowers and restrictions on internal combustion tools from May 15 to September 15. Signed by health professionals from the Mount Sinai Pediatric Environmental Health Specialty Unit, it emphasizes the health risks, particularly to children, from harmful pollutants, excessive noise, and potential eye injuries. The authors urge the Board to act to protect community health and improve respiratory wellness.

The San Luis Obispo Grand Jury report highlights the health hazards of two-cycle gasoline leaf blowers, which produce significant emissions, toxic exhaust, and high noise levels. These blowers emit pollutants equivalent to a car driven 200 miles in one hour. The report recommends a gradual phase-out in favor of cleaner alternatives like electric blowers or manual tools. The Grand Jury calls for county and city regulations to mitigate health risks and improve quality of life.

The Waste Management & Research Center evaluated VOC emissions from leaf blowers in Chicago under three policy scenarios: no ordinances, an aggressive ban during summer months, and a moderate policy promoting low-emission models. The aggressive scenario could cut emissions by over 64%, while the moderate scenario offers smaller, decreasing reductions. Localities like Wilmette and Oak Park have already enacted similar restrictions to address emissions and noise pollution.

The study examines emissions from small, handheld two-stroke engines used in lawn equipment, highlighting their release of toxic pollutants like carbon dioxide and hydrocarbons. Engine type significantly affects emissions, while fuel blend has little impact. These engines contribute 5-10% of total US emissions, suggesting a need for greater attention in air quality and exposure studies.

This study assessed emissions from 23 handheld 2-stroke engines from 1981-2003, revealing significant CO and HC reductions in phase-2 engines due to better design and catalytic controls. Using 10% ethanol fuel further cut HC and CO emissions. However, more oil in the fuel increased PM2.5 emissions. These findings confirm air quality improvements from updated emission standards.

The "Leaf Blower Hazards" training manual from Echo, Inc. provides essential guidelines for the responsible use of leaf blowers, addressing concerns about noise, emissions, and dust pollution. It emphasizes the importance of considerate operation, adherence to local noise ordinances, and running leaf blowers at part throttle to minimize disturbances.

The study by Richard Baldauf and colleagues examined exposure to air contaminants for operators of gasoline-powered lawn and garden equipment. Operators faced elevated levels of carbon monoxide (CO), PM2.5, and aldehydes, potentially exceeding health standards. The study highlights the risks associated with these tools and the influence of operator activity and environmental conditions on exposure levels, suggesting the need for increased awareness and regulation.

This study by the Kuopio Regional Institute of Occupational Health examined noise emissions from leaf blowers and other gardening equipment. Testing of nine leaf blowers revealed noise exposure levels between 93-102 dB(A), with the highest levels from 2-stroke engines. These engines emitted low-frequency tonal noise components, which penetrate walls and are perceived as particularly irritating. The study highlights the significant noise emissions from leaf blowers, contributing to public complaints and recognizing the need for improved noise control in such equipment.

The Grand Jury report outlines the health and environmental hazards of gas-powered leaf blowers in Orange County, citing toxic emissions, particulate pollution, and harmful noise levels. Exhaust from these blowers is likened to the pollution of 17 cars per hour. The report calls for local governments, school districts, and community colleges to stop using gas-powered blowers in favor of cleaner alternatives like rakes, brooms, or electric blowers. It highlights successful compliance in cities that have banned the devices, emphasizing the need to protect public health and improve quality of life.