Grass lawns require large amounts of water to remain healthy and green, particularly in hot and dry climates. Grass lawns can contribute to water shortages and exacerbate water-related environmental problems such as desertification and soil erosion.

Grass lawns also require significant amounts of fertilizer and pesticide to maintain their appearance. These chemicals can have a range of negative impacts on the environment, including contaminating soil and waterways, contributing to eutrophication, and threatening human health.

Grass lawns are a monoculture, meaning that they consist of a single species of grass. This lack of biodiversity can have negative impacts on ecosystems, as it reduces habitat diversity for wildlife and can lead to the loss of native plant species. In some cases, grass lawns have even been linked to declines in populations of bees and other pollinators, which are essential for maintaining healthy ecosystems.

Finally, the proliferation of grass lawns at a global scale can contribute to climate change. Grass lawns require significant amounts of water, fertilizer, and other inputs, all of which have carbon footprints associated with their production and transportation. Additionally, the use of lawnmowers and other maintenance equipment can contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, further exacerbating the problem.

America is addicted to lawns. Grass is the single largest irrigated agricultural “crop” in America. Lawns cover more than 40 million acres in the United States (Milesia et al, n.d.). 

Every year, U.S. homeowners spill some 17 million gallons of gas while filling up mowers. We use tens of millions of pounds of chemical fertilizers and pesticides on our lawns.

At a national scale, the use of grass lawns has contributed to mostly the same issues faced globally. Grass lawns can have an environmental impact, contributing to water and air pollution and loss of biodiversity.

At the local scale, grass lawns can put a strain on local water resources and disrupt local ecosystems. At the local scale, grass lawns can be expensive to maintain and may be harmful to local wildlife. At the local scale, one of the biggest problems associated with grass lawns is their cost. Grass lawns require a lot of maintenance, which can be expensive for homeowners. This includes the cost of water, fertilizer, and lawn care equipment, as well as the time and effort required to maintain the lawn.

Another issue at the local scale is the impact of grass lawns on local ecosystems. Grass lawns can disrupt local ecosystems by providing little habitat for native species and contributing to the decline of some species. Additionally, some grass lawns may be treated with pesticides and herbicides, which can be harmful to local wildlife.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that American households use more water on lawn care than on showers and washing clothes combined. By transitioning to eco-friendly lawn options, we can reduce our water consumption and waste. And not only does switching to grass lawn alternatives conserve water, it also aids in mitigating the impact of our carbon footprint. 

Other universities such as Penn State, Michigan State, and Iowa State University are also recommending switching from traditional lawns to grass alternatives in favor of reducing water usage/waste, reducing emissions from gasoline-powered lawn equipment, and increasing availability for pollinators and wildlife. Pollinators are essential for our food production, thus grass lawn alternatives provide more options for them while benefiting us in our food systems.

Some options that would work well in Michigan's harsh climate include clover, which is a hardy, low-growing plant that doesn't require mowing and can handle foot traffic well. Another option is creeping thyme, which forms a dense mat of aromatic foliage and produces tiny purple flowers in the summer. It's also a great choice for areas that receive a lot of sun. Other options include sedum, (also used all over campus on the green roofs) which is a succulent plant that's drought-resistant and thrives in well-drained soil, and moss, which can grow in shaded areas and requires very little maintenance. All of these alternatives are eco-friendly, require less water than grass, and can add visual interest to your landscape.

Our college campus could benefit greatly from the installation of grass lawn alternatives such as clover, creeping thyme, sedum, and moss. These options are low-maintenance and eco-friendly, requiring less water and chemicals than traditional grass lawns. In addition, they provide visual interest and are great for pollinators and other wildlife.

By replacing traditional grass lawns with these sustainable alternatives, we would be reducing the carbon footprint of our campus, improving the quality of the air and water, and saving on maintenance costs. We could also use this initiative as an opportunity to educate our community about the benefits of eco-friendly landscaping and encourage sustainable practices.

The best time to plant grass lawn alternatives like clover, creeping thyme, sedum, and moss in Michigan is in the early spring or late summer. This is when the temperatures are cooler and the soil is moist, which will help the plants establish their roots. To plant clover, simply scatter the seeds over the soil and lightly rake them in. Water the area well and keep the soil moist until the clover seeds germinate. For creeping thyme, plant small plugs or cuttings about 6-12 inches apart in well-draining soil they prefer a sandier soil. Water the area well and keep the soil moist until the plants are established. Creeping thyme takes about a year to be established and then will begin to really spread in its second year. Sedum can be planted in a similar manner to thyme in a semi-rich well-draining soil, and should be watered sparingly until established. Sedum is known for being a fast grower so it will spread quickly but may take a season or two to flower. Moss can be transplanted from other areas in your yard or from a nursery. Simply remove the moss from its original location and transplant it into the area you want it to grow in. Water it well and keep it moist until it establishes itself in the new location. After planting, it's important to keep the area weed-free and to water the plants regularly until they become established. Once established, these grass lawn alternatives require little maintenance, making them a great choice for a low-maintenance landscape.