How landscape gardening is being electrified. In southern California, the whirring of electric leaf blowers has taken over from the roar of petrol-powered models.

Noise reduction isn't just about peace and quiet; it’s also about cleaner air and longer working hours. Electric tools are lighter and quieter, making them more user-friendly for landscapers.

Start-up Whisper Aero is leading this charge with its aerospace-grade fans in electric leaf blowers. Though the price tag may be high, the benefits of a quieter work environment make it a worthwhile investment. For professional landscaper Carlos Camarena, however, petrol tools remain indispensable due to their power and runtime.

Major players like Stihl are also on board with battery-powered equipment, aiming for 35% of sales by next year. Their new high-performance batteries offer faster charging and lighter weight, but the transition isn’t without its challenges. Camarena believes electric tools will eventually win out as a cleaner and quieter alternative.

For now, petrol machines dominate in professional settings due to their power and cost-effectiveness. However, the push towards electrification is undeniable, hinting at a greener future for our green spaces.