In northern climates, winter brings snow and ice leading to slippery surfaces. Keeping entries, walks, driveways and other surfaces safe is an imperative. Because it lowers the freezing point of water, table or rock salt (sodium chloride) is often a tool of choice. What many do not realize is that the use of salt causes significant damage to local environments. And many are not aware that there are safer, readily available alternatives.

Using rock salt can damage the local environment and, as it washes away with the snow melt, ecosystems far away. Rock salt may also damage stone and concrete, so switching to a more sustainable alternative may also reduce maintenance costs and save money over time.

Harms of Sodium Chloride

• Harms grasses, trees, and plants by causing a water imbalance in plant roots.
• Kills soil bacteria.
• Damages soil structure.
• Upsets the existing, natural pH balance.
• Because chloride ions do not evaporate, eliminating them from an ecosystem once introduced is difficult.

Sustainable, Safe Alternatives to Salt

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