Cristina Solis, a sustainability expert, says to opt for de-icers labeled with EPA approval. 'These products adhere to specific environmental guidelines, minimizing the potential harm that conventional de-icers can cause to plants, waterways, and wildlife,' she explains. 'The EPA's Safer Choice label takes into account different factors to guarantee that these products are safer and more environmentally friendly than typical de-icers. This assessment includes meticulous scrutiny for factors like carcinogenicity, potential harm to aquatic life, and the degree of persistence within the environment.'
Cristina also lists some other de-icer options, including fireplace ash, alfalfa meal, coffee grounds, or pickle brine. 'These environmentally-friendly alternatives are safer for plants and pets compared to conventional chemical de-icers,' she says.