What is enviroscaping and how can it help conserve energy?

Enviroscaping is the practice of landscaping to modify the surrounding environment. The purpose behind the practice of enviroscaping can be to create a sustainable or low-impact landscape, to enhance the natural environment, and also to conserve energy.

 

In many parts of the United States, using trees and groundcover to cool the surroundings with shade and evaporative cooling are techniques used to conserve energy lost for household cooling. Enviroscaping uses the placement of trees, shrubs and other plants to guide summer breezes or block cold winter winds from a home or business. The practice also considers other energy needs, such as watering, of “man-made” landscapes.

Home and business owners can substantially reduce their energy consumption needs with proper enviroscaping techniques. An example of specific enviroscaping recommendations for one state in the U.S. (Florida) is provided here.