Rock salt has been used for decades to help with de-icing sidewalks and driveways but did you know that rock salt actually has harmful environmental impacts? Scientific research has found that excess salt builds up in soil making it more acidic, salt residue can prevent plants from absorbing moisture and nutrients, salts can leach heavy metals which make their way into water supplies and salt can burn your pets paws. Now that you know this you may be thinking it’s time to get rid of the de-ice rock salt, well lucky for you there are actually some eco-friendly ways that work just as well.

The first way you can prevent ice is to shovel right after a snow fall. The less time the snow has to bond with the sidewalk the less ice there will be. A snow blower has the same effect but at the same time releases pollution into the air.

To create traction on slick sidewalks or driveways you can scatter sand or bird seed. The grains from both won’t melt snow or ice but they will definitely give you more grip. Kitty litter can also be used with the same effect; however, when wet some kitty litter can get slushy.

If you still prefer to use a standard de-icer there are actually some companies who non toxic brands that eliminate the harmful effects that rock salt has. This de-icer still assists with the melting of snow and provides traction but with no side effects.

Being green is a huge revolution right now and those who are becoming more aware of the finite resources on our planet have made huge strides in making our world more efficient. So whether your reason is to save your pets or to save the planet, try one of these eco-friendly ways to de-ice your sidewalks and driveways.