Dessau – In many places, conventional de-icing salt is considered to be a fast way to eliminate ice and snow. However, especially when used often and in high doses, salt leaves behind lasting damage: soil, plants and bodies of water are contaminated, vehicles and structures are attacked by corrosion. Salt-free alternatives can be identified by the Blue Angel ecolabel and ensure that paths are safe to walk on, even in extremely cold conditions – without any harmful impacts on the environment.
Combatting black ice – without environmental damage
The current weather conditions are significantly increasing the risk of an accident. At the same time, the shortage of de-icing salt is exacerbating the situation, especially in towns and municipalities. Many community authorities have already restricted or banned the use of de-icing salt for many years – not only for environmental reasons but also to protect roads, bridges and buildings. Salt-free abrasives such as sand, chippings or granulate matter offer a proven and available alternative: they create a non-slip surface, reliably reduce the risk of slipping and also protect the environment and surrounding area. Products with the Blue Angel follow strict environmental criteria.
“It should be considered in advance whether the use of de-icing salt is really necessary. Salt-free alternatives, which are more environmentally friendly, can easily be identified by the ‘Blue Angel’ ecolabel,” explains Janine Braumann, Public Relations for the Blue Angel at the German Environment Agency.
De-icing salt exacerbates environmental problems – especially with frequent use
The extensive use of de-icing salt has a long-term impact on habitats along roads and pavements. Salt enters the soil and bodies of water, harms trees and bushes and makes them more susceptible to illnesses. Due to the currently increased icy conditions, gritting is being carried out particularly frequently, which is exacerbating the damage considerably. Animals also suffer due to salty residues, as they can develop painful injuries to their paws. Environmentally friendly, salt-free abrasives thus not only protect nature and the infrastructure, but also wild animals and pets.
Resource-friendly clearing and gritting
In view of the current shortage of de-icing salt, it is especially important to tackle snow and ice in the correct manner. Clearing it early – where possible, immediately after the snow has fallen – prevents the snow from becoming compacted, which would require more material to remove it later on. Abrasives such as sand, chippings and granulate matter are an effective and environmentally friendly choice when tackling black ice. A sufficient spreading density of around 100 g/m² is important. A further benefit in times of shortage: these abrasives can be brushed up and reused once the snow melts. The Blue Angel offers consumers a reliable guide when buying salt-free products.
