LANDSCAPING
RAKING IN MORE SUSTAINABLE LANDSCAPE SOLUTIONS
Aggregates can play an important role in conservation as Will McGill finds out. .
S
ustainability has, in recent years, transitioned from a niche concern to a central focus in industries worldwide. As the demand for eco-friendly
and sustainable practices grows in landscape design and architecture, the use of aggregates has become a crucial component. Builders’ merchants play a pivotal role in this evolution, providing essential materials that meet both functional and aesthetic standards. Long Rake Spar has committed to achieving Planet Mark Business Certification in its drive to reduce the company’s carbon footprint and to improve and integrate its environmental standards into a sider sustainability strategy. Tammy Tidmarsh, Brand Manager at Long Rake Spar, says: “We have already invested heavily in reducing our carbon footprint, including acquiring a fleet of electric vehicles, backed up by installing EV charging points at all our sites. We’ve taken steps to reduce our energy and water consumption and have chosen sustainable options when it comes to merchandising our Merchant customers’ yards. “Sustainable landscaping aims to create outdoor spaces that are not only beautiful and functional but also environmentally responsible. This approach prioritises the
use of materials and practices that minimise ecological impact, conserve resources, and promote biodiversity.
“With increased awareness of climate change and environmental degradation, homeowners, businesses, and local governments are increasingly seeking landscaping solutions that align with sustainability goals. Landscapes that can withstand extreme weather conditions, such as droughts and floods are becoming ever more important.”
Tidmarsh says that the market is seeing a reduction in conventional lawn-centric landscapes, with aggregates becoming ever more popular due to their low-maintenance, low-cost appeal.
They provide structural stability, enhance drainage, and contribute to the aesthetic appeal of outdoor spaces.
“Proper water management is a critical aspect of sustainable landscaping. Aggregates allow water to infiltrate the ground- reducing runoff,” continues Tidmarsh.
“This is especially important in urban areas, where impermeable surfaces contribute to flooding and erosion.
“Being a natural material aggregates encourage biodiversity, providing habitats for small insects. Garden styles that provide heterogeneous features, such as ponds, rock gardens and gravel drives, are more advantageous for wildlife than those of a single landscape typology.
“Aggregates offer versatility in the fact they can be spread as a top layer/mulch over borders to prevent water evaporation from the soil in hot weather, keeping soil temperatures cooler.”
She says that, as builders’ merchants are at the forefront of the supply chain for landscaping materials, they have a unique opportunity to influence sustainable practices in the industry. By stocking and promoting aggregates, merchants can meet the growing
September 2024 A supplement to builders merchants journal
demand for eco-friendly products and help drive the shift towards greener landscaping in the following ways:
Tidmarsh believes that, to meet the demand for sustainable landscaping, merchants should consider expanding their range of aggregates. “This might include offering a more diverse range, to satisfy customers who are looking for something different. An expanded product range not only enhances the merchant’s reputation but also attracts a broader customer base.
“As sustainability becomes an increasingly important aspect of landscaping and, by taking a proactive approach, builders’ merchants can be leaders in the transition towards a greener, more sustainable built environment. n
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