From the Office of Civic Life:

Multnomah County Bans Gas-powered Leaf Blowers

On Dec. 16, 2021, Multnomah County leadership took a large step in their efforts preserve the health of their communities and address the climate crisis at the local level by voting to phase gas-powered leaf blowers out of our communities before 2025.

The engines commonly used in gas-powered leaf blowers emit harmful substances including carbon monoxide, nitrous oxides, ozone, and carcinogens. It’s estimated that one hour of operation emits the same number of pollutants as driving a Toyota Camry about 1,100 miles, or the distance from Portland to San Diego. These devices also contribute to hearing damage and noise pollution. Noise from gas-powered leaf blowers often exceeds 85 decibels at close range, a volume that the CDC says can damage the hearing of operators and others nearby. Check out Civic Life’s Noise Program for more information about what “noise” is and how we work to keep our communities healthy and livable.

“Gas leaf blowers are a danger to the environment and to the health and livability of all who live, work, and play in Multnomah County, and especially to those who operate them,” said Stanley Penken of Quiet Clean PDX.

Read more about the Board of County Commissioners’ decision here.

Are you interested in adding your experience and expertise to noise impacts in Portland? The City of Portland Noise Review Board is currently recruiting a new member. Read more about this position and how to apply here or check out the Advisory Body Recruitment section of this email for more ways to get involved.