As global warming continues to rise, it is critical to consider your impact on the environment. Implementing waste sorting programs, creating a bring-your-own-dishes-to-work policy, using motion sensors for soap dispensers and hand dryers, and going paperless are a few of the many ways you can minimize your business’s impact on the planet. Another green initiative includes using eco-friendly ice melt alternatives. Salts and chlorides present in most chemical-based ice melts negatively affect our ecosystem by entering our waterways. When ingested by animals, ice melt can cause severe harm. There are many store-bought eco-friendly ice melt alternatives; however, these items you may have in your cupboard will also suffice.
Pickle Brine
The high salt content in pickle brine combined with vinegar makes pickle brine highly effective as an ice melt. It has a low freezing point, is cost-effective, and doesn’t damage concrete and asphalt. A large amount of pickle brine is needed for effectiveness, so it is not a common de-icing method.
Beet Juice
This new eco-friendly ice melt alternative is increasing in popularity for its low cost and effectiveness. Highly concentrated sugar beet juice is great for ice removal and is widely used across Canada. The sugar in beet juice reduces the ice melting point when combined with a salt brine. Although there are many store-bought options on the market, a DIY mixture is just as productive.
Coffee Grounds
Coffee grounds provide traction and have a high nitrogen content similar to alfalfa meal that efficiently eliminates ice. When combined with sunlight, coffee grounds absorb heat and help melt snow quickly. Although this is not the most bullet-proof method, coffee grounds are decomposable and do not harm flowers and plants.
Alfalfa Meal
Alfalfa meal is a common plant fertilizer that is used as a de-icer during the winter. It provides traction and assists in melting ice. The high nitrogen content in alfalfa meal aids in de-icing and doesn’t harm flowers and plants.
Calcium Magnesium Acetate
This method is not commonly used due to being a less cost-effective option than most eco-friendly ice melt alternatives. It also takes a lot longer to melt ice than some other green alternatives. In comparison to salt, Calcium Magnesium Acetate is better for the environment, gentler on concrete, asphalt, flowers, and plants, and is fully biodegradable.
Vinegar
Vinegar should be a last resort when de-icing. It is most effective when combined with hot water, but can cause freezing in cold weather.
Go Green With Clean Green Solutions
Clean Green Solutions is committed to a greener future. Our business model is fully green – from our products to our practices. We are continuously going through ongoing training and green certification to minimize the impact commercial cleaning has on the environment. Clean Green Solutions provides quality eco-friendly cleaning services for offices and commercial spaces throughout Vancouver and Richmond, BC. Ensure your business is well-maintained without compromising on quality, ethics, and corporate social responsibility. Visit www.cleangreenvancouver.ca to learn more about our green cleaning services or request a free quote!