Gardening may not be as positive an activity in terms of its environmental impact as it might appear to be, according to a new report.
The study – entitled The Domestic Garden – Its Contribution to Urban Green Infrastructure – was conducted by academics at the University of Sheffield in collaboration with the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS).
Despite this, it was noted that gardeners can change this trend by taking a more eco-conscious approach as to how they go about their favourite pastime.
Indeed, the report asserted it is important the role of gardening is clearly defined at a time when urbanisation is rife and green spaces are increasingly being considered a luxury.
For instance, the widespread use of peat is said to produce around half a million tons of CO2 annually, which is the equivalent to the emissions of around 100,000 cars.
However, there are a range of environmentally friendly alternatives to this solution that green-fingered Brits can adopt if they still wish to take advantage of its benefits.
Mulching can also serve to protect plants from unfavourable conditions and enrich the soil with enhanced nutrients.
People who wish to adopt this approach can browse MowDIRECT's range of chippers and shredders, many of which recycle garden waste such as wood chippings and turn it into this valuable substance.
This represents an efficient means of recycling, which is likely to be welcomed by eco-conscious UK gardeners.
Speaking to the Independent, senior horticultural scientist at the RHS and one of the authors of the report Dr Tijana Blanusa claimed it is very important people be as climate friendly as possible.
"With the findings of this report in mind, the RHS will continue to work closely with gardeners, horticultural trade and horticultural researchers to minimise potential negative impacts and ensure that gardeners get the most out of their gardens without costing the Earth," she told the newspaper.
