Cleveland Heights Residents Swap Gas Mowers and Blowers for Battery Models to Improve Air Quality

Published: May 13, 2026 - 11:32 a.m.

By Sandra Anderson

---

CLEVELAND HEIGHTS, OHIO — Residents lined up May 7 to swap their aging gas-powered yard tools for new battery-operated models during the city's third annual equipment exchange. Seventy participants, chosen through a random selection process, brought in their old mowers and leaf blowers to receive DeWalt replacements at no cost to themselves. This year's event represents a significant expansion of the initiative, as it is the first time the city included leaf blowers in the program. The initiative aligns with Action 5.3 of the Cleveland Heights Climate Forward Plan, a document that outlines specific steps for the community to reduce its carbon footprint. City officials point to the significant environmental impact of small engines as a primary motivator for the swap. According to the U.S. EPA, the amount of pollution generated by a standard gas mower in one season exceeds the emissions from a car trip between New York and Los Angeles. Beyond the environmental impact, there is a direct connection to public health in the region. Records from MetroHealth indicate there were 511 pediatric asthma cases in Cleveland Heights in 2023 alone. Local air quality remains a point of concern for city leaders, particularly during Air Quality Awareness Week. By removing 70 gas engines from local neighborhoods, the city aims to reduce the particulate matter and smog-forming emissions that can trigger respiratory issues in children and seniors. The program did not cost the city's general fund any money this year. A grant from NOPEC covered 100% of the equipment costs, allowing the city to provide the battery-powered kits to the selected residents. This funding is part of a broader effort to improve community resiliency and meet the goals of the national Air Quality Awareness Week campaign. Residents who were not selected this year can monitor the Cleveland Heights city website for future updates on sustainability initiatives and potential upcoming equipment grants. -------------------- At Cleveland 13 News, we strive to provide accurate, up-to-date, and reliable reporting. If you spot an error, omission, or have information that may need updating, please email us at tips@cleveland13news.com. As a community-driven news network, we appreciate the help of our readers in ensuring the integrity of our reporting.