Just like a squirrel collecting acorns, little efforts add up to a big impact. Sustainable changes work the same way. So, we've gathered 25 of our favorite sustainability picks in this handy-dandy article (and flipbook). Pick a few that work for you and watch your impact quickly stack up.

Then, share your commitment on social media alongside our adorable badge. Click here to snag yours.

1. Compost or Mulch Green Debris*

Whether it's tree trimmings or grass clippings, don't send them to the landfill! That green waste can be a source of nourishment for your landscape. Mulching mowers cut clippings into tiny pieces that fall back into the lawn as fertilizer, while chippers turn what was pruned into mulch onsite.

2. Select Native Plants*

When installing a new landscape, or replacing plants in an existing one, make native plants a top choice. Native plants are better adapted to local soil and climate conditions, which in turn means they'll need less water, fertilizer, and pesticides once established. In addition to being lower maintenance, they're often a vital food source and habitat for pollinators and other local wildlife.

3. Utilize Eco-Friendly Pest Management Strategies*

Today, there are many non-toxic pest control options that are safer for the environment and humans. These include natural repellents, biological controls (like beneficial insects) and organic products, which can be used in combination for a more comprehensive solution. Ask your landscape partner how to make these part of your pest management program.

4. Swap Resealable Plastic Bags for Compostables

Many resealable plastic bags are made from polyethylene, a polymer that can take up to 1,000 years to break down in the soil. Worse, it releases microplastics that can be absorbed into crops or water streams. As an alternative, try compostable bags, which are made from plant-based, renewable materials that can degrade in soil in as few as 10 to 60 days, especially if you use a commercial composting service (For more on that, check out No. 15!).

5. Choose Electrified Landscape Equipment*

Don't settle for the status quo. Electrified landscape equipment can match or exceed gas-powered equipment in performance, without the noise and air pollution. For personal use, consider replacing your home equipment with newer electric tools. And for your commercial landscape service, request the use of zero-emission equipment on your property.

6. Plant a Windbreak*

If you're looking to reduce heating costs, plant a windbreak. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates a windbreak will reduce wind speed for a distance up to 30 times the windbreak's height, thereby lowering wind chill. Dense evergreen shrubs planted to the north or northwest of your home or building are the most common choice. For greater effect, combine them with a wall, fence, or berm.

7. Make a Meal Plan

Bard University estimates people throw out 1.3 billion tons of food every year—and the majority is sent to landfills. If food waste were a country, it would be the third-largest producer of carbon dioxide in the world. One of the easiest ways to combat this is by creating a weekly meal plan. Treat yourself to an attractive meal planning notebook or convenient app to make your new habit stick.

8. Conduct Regular Irrigation Audits*

Audits weed out the troublemakers in your irrigation system—like hidden leaks, runoff, broken sprinkler heads, and outdated zones or equipment—that silently waste resources and budget. Having a pro check your system once or twice a year will ensure issues are caught early, before they balloon into bigger problems.

9. Use Organic Mulch*

Organic mulch is landscape's ultimate multitasker. It nourishes your soil as it decomposes, suppresses weeds so you need less herbicide, conserves moisture so you can water less, regulates temperature, and prevents erosion. Just be sure to say no to chemically dyed and rubber mulches for maximum benefit.

10. Select LED Lights*

This idea is especially bright. When installing new landscape or holiday lighting, go for LED varieties. You'll enjoy lower maintenance and lower electric bills. LED varieties consume 75- to 80-percent less energy than traditional halogen or incandescent bulbs and can last 50,000 hours or more under normal conditions.

11. Use Controlled-Release Fertilizers*

Controlled-release fertilizers (CRFs) are a win-win for plants and the environment. In addition to providing a steady supply of nutrients that match a plant's uptake rates, they also reduce the risk of leaching into groundwater. And here's another reason to love them: because CFRs last longer, less applications are needed, making them more cost-effective.

12. Plant More Trees*

If you're wondering whether adding more trees to your landscape would be worthwhile, the answer is probably yes. Trees are crucial to combating climate change and improving air quality. Plus, numerous studies show they reduce energy costs for cooling, improve property values, and even boost our mental health. What's not to love?

13. Create a Pollinator Garden*

Show some love to your local pollinators and enjoy a riot of color in return. Creating a pollinator garden is easier than you think. Simply select a sunny spot, plant a diverse selection of native flowers, include larval host plants (such as milkweed), and avoid using pesticides that could harm your bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. For year-round interest, we like to stagger plants that bloom in each season.

14. Compost Kitchen Waste

Those kitchen scraps aren't trash. They're the start of a nutrient-rich fertilizer for your garden. But that's not the only benefit. Composting your kitchen waste also reduces landfill methane emissions and lowers your carbon footprint. With lots of attractive in-home composting devices now available, it's never been easier (or faster) to start composting. Alternatively, leave it to the pros and hire a service. Search "composting services" in your town to find a provider near you.

15. Update Your Irrigation System*

The latest irrigation technology makes watering your landscape more efficient than ever. By delivering precise amounts of water in the most effective way possible, these solutions can reduce water consumption by as much as 50 percent while boosting plant health. For example, consider swapping older fixed spray heads to more efficient rotary nozzles or drip emitters. Or, if you have a manual controller, it may be time to upgrade to a smart controller, which can adjust watering schedules based on real-time local weather and soil conditions. Not sure where to begin? An irrigation audit (see No. 8) will eliminate the guesswork.

16. Choose Permeable Surfaces*

When it comes to selecting a material for new patios or pathways, choose permeable surfaces when possible. Gravel, decomposed granite, and permeable pavers are just a few examples of more sustainable choices than poured concrete slabs. They allow water to seep into the ground, promoting groundwater recharge and reducing runoff, puddling, and flooding. Bonus: they also filter pollutants through aggregate layers, improving water quality.

17. Conduct Regular Soil Tests*

Periodic soil testing provides a wealth of diagnostic information, including pH levels, nutrient availability, and physical structure. With this information, it's easier to troubleshoot what's ailing your plants and better tailor fertilizer applications and soil amendments. That precision enables a more robust, resilient landscape, and most importantly, reduces unnecessary fertilizer and chemical applications.

18. Use FSC-Certified Wood*

For wood decks, fences, and other structures, use only Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified wood. This timber has been harvested from forests that meet the council's standards for sustainable harvesting, biodiversity protection, and protection of water quality.

19. Create Customized Watering Zones*

Instead of taking a one-size-fits-all approach to watering, consider hydrozoning. Hydrozoning is the practice of grouping plants with similar water needs into designated irrigation zones. This makes it possible to set specialized watering schedules that give each zone precisely the amount of water it needs. Not only does this reduce the risk of over- or underwatering, but it also means less fungal infections and stressed plants.

20. Use Liquid Anti-Icers in the Winter*

Liquid anti-icer applied before ice or snow arrives reduces salt use by approximately 50 percent. That means less chloride runoff into waterways and soil. And, because liquid anti-icers stay where they're applied, damage to vegetation and infrastructure is also minimized.

21. Bring Reusable Grocery Bags

The World Wildlife Foundation estimates plastic bags are one of the greatest threats to ocean wildlife. During the 20 years a plastic bag takes to biodegrade, it will break into increasingly smaller pieces, each with the potential to cause tremendous harm. The best way to combat this is by keeping a stash of reusable grocery bags in your trunk. Not only are they stronger, but there are so many fun options to choose from!

22. Create a Rain Garden*

If you've noticed your landscape has soggy spots after a storm, a rain garden could be an attractive and sustainable solution. When properly designed, a rain garden collects water in a shallow depression, allowing it to percolate into the soil and replenish underground aquifers. Plus, the plants and soil filter out pollutants from the runoff and reduce erosion.

23. Recycle Old Hardscape*

Ripping out old concreate, brick, stone, or pavers? They may have a second life. Many old hardscape materials can be recycled or repurposed, reducing waste and disposal costs. For example, at BrightView, we've used recycled concrete from old walkways as a subbase for new hardscape projects. Find out what's possible for your next project!

24. B.Y.O.C.

B.Y.O.C.—bring your own cup to the café, that is! It's an easy way to reduce waste if you enjoy a regular coffee treat. Bonus: if it's an insulated variety, your drink will stay hot or cold longer.

25. Convert Your Turf*

Got some unused lawn space? Swap it out for lower maintenance ground cover, or native, drought-tolerant choices that support your local pollinators. You'll save money on watering and maintenance costs. Or, if you're not ready to do away with turf entirely, increase the size of your surrounding planting beds to capture some of the same benefit.

Now that we've lit the spark, let's put your sustainable solutions in motion.

*Psst! Wherever you see this symbol, we can implement the solution for you! It's as easy as a single call.

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For other BrightView Landscapes stock information or other financial reports, please visit our investor website.

This Corporate Responsibility Report aims to provide a consolidated overview of BrightView’s non-financial performance. Metrics included in this Report cover our activities during the FY2025 (October 1, 2024 - September 30, 2025) period, unless otherwise noted. This Report includes select metrics from the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) Professional and Commercial Services industry standard.

Fill two needs with one deed! From how you hydrate to how you commute, here are four simple, yet powerful ways you can make a difference for the planet and your personal wellbeing. Reap the feel-good vibes when you give one (or all!) a try this Green Week.

Don’t believe everything you hear, especially when it comes to tree care. Myths and legends abound, some of which can permanently harm your trees. That’s why we’re breaking down five of the most common misconceptions and delivering the facts you need to treat your trees right. 

Myth No. 1: All Trees Need Stakes

Let’s first clarify when stakes are definitely needed: Specifically, if you’re in a windy area, the tree is top heavy, or is otherwise at a high risk of leaning due to loose soil or a small root system. 

Otherwise, your tree may be just fine without a stake. In many cases, stakes are forgotten once they’re placed and that could post a problem down the line, especially if it causes girdling as the tree continues to grow. Another potential issue unnecessary or improper staking can cause is impeding natural sway for the trunk. This helps trunks grow stronger and promotes more robust root growth.

Myth No. 2: Trees Don’t Need Any Special T.L.C.

Because, hello, haven’t you seen a forest? We get it— if trees do just fine in the wild, it would stand to reason they don’t need any help from us. But the urban environment is much different and has its own unique set of stressors, like limited space, soil compaction, and pollutants. Regular pruning, fertilizer, and ongoing care from a certified arborist—such as a plant health care program—help trees excel in spite of the manmade challenges we throw their way.

Myth No. 3: Build-Up Mulch Around the Trunk

The “mulch volcano” has become such a ubiquitous sight that it’s probably hard to believe it’s not what you’re supposed to do. The truth is excess mulch piled around the base of a tree can suffocate tree roots or cause decay. Worse, trees may try to grow a secondary root system into the mulch pile, which will eventually be exposed as the mulch decays. Yikes!

To be sure, mulch has its benefits. It regulates soil temperature, helps preserve soil moisture, and prevents weeds. But like all good things, moderation is key.

Myth No. 4: Most Tree Roots are Deep Underground

Actually, the majority of tree roots are located in the uppermost 12 to 36 inches of the soil. Some trees may develop deeper anchoring roots, such as oaks and hickories, but most never do. You might also be surprised to learn that contrary to popular belief, a tree’s root system does not end at its drip line; in fact, many root systems extend more than twice the diameter of the tree’s canopy.

Given the area and shallow depth, tree roots can easily be damaged by our daily activities—either directly, by tools and equipment, or over time through soil compaction. That’s why it’s so important to take extra care when digging or operating machinery in the vicinity of your trees.

Myth No. 5: Topping a Tree is Beneficial

First, let’s establish that tree pruning is not the same as topping. Topping is a practice where, just as the name suggests, you remove the top of the tree. Upper branches are essentially reduced to stubs. The result is both unsightly and terrible for the tree. In addition to making the tree more susceptible to disease and pests, it also permanently impairs the tree’s ability to maintain a natural shape. And here’s the kicker: it inevitably induces the need for more pruning. That’s because after being topped, a tree will respond to the stress by sending out tons of water sprouts. These fast-growing shoots are a defense mechanism to help replace the critical foliage that was lost. Unfortunately, their dense growth pattern and spindly shape are less-than attractive.

Arborists agree tree topping is a no-go. If you need to manage a tree’s size, there are a number of better alternatives. A certified arborist can guide you to the best solution.

Looking for a certified arborist and experienced tree care team? Look no further! With our knowledgeable local experts, your trees are in good hands. Get in touch to set up a complimentary consultation.

Earth Day may be a single day, but there’s plenty of ways to make the spirit of sustainability last all year long. Check out our list of eco-friendly landscaping best practices. They’re easy to implement, promote better plant health, and can even save you money.

Waste Not with Mulching Mowers

Mulching mowers pack a powerful one-two punch in benefits. They reduce green waste that would otherwise be sent to the landfill by repurposing it onsite into a nutrient-rich compost. The mower's blades cut grass and leaves into fine pieces that are deposited onto the soil. As the pieces decompose, they act as a natural fertilizer for your landscape. Less waste + free fertilizer = win-win!

Beat Dry Spells with Drought-Tolerant Plants

Incorporating drought-tolerant plants into your landscape enhances curb appeal and can reduce your water bill. Thanks to their lower water needs, drought tolerant plants will look great, even during dry spells. And because they experience less stress in periods of water scarcity, that can translate to less need for fertilization and a greater resistance to pests and disease.

Be Waterwise with Smart Irrigation

When it comes to watering your landscape, there’s no reason for runoff, overspray, or watering in the rain. Today’s irrigation technology ensures the most efficient water application and implementing it doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. Among our favorites are rain sensors and smart controllers, which automatically adjust your watering schedule to ensure you’re not watering when it’s not needed. High-efficiency sprinkler heads and drip irrigation are another must have because they apply water in a slower, more uniform manner. This gives the soil more time to absorb the water, reducing runoff and wasteful mist that can blow away.

Let Sustainability Soak in with Permeable Surfaces

No pun intended, but concrete can be a little hard on the environment. That’s because concrete and other impervious surfaces don’t allow groundwater to soak into the soil and recharge aquifers. This leads to runoff and erosion. In contrast, permeable surfaces—such as gravel and permeable pavers—allow water to filter through, contributing to a more balanced ecosystem. And here’s a “cool” fact: permeable surfaces may even help reduce the urban heat island effect through evaporative cooling!

Remedy Run-off with a Rain Garden

Got drainage issues? Rain gardens are an attractive way to deal with depressions where rainwater collects. They act like nature’s sponge, soaking up excess water to prevent run-off, erosion, and flooding. Typically, rain gardens are planted with native plants that love water, but also don’t mind drier periods. Planted at the base of a naturally occurring slope, water funnels into the rain garden, where it’s able to soak into the ground more quickly. In a well-constructed rain garden, the water will be absorbed within a day, which prevents mosquitos and leads to some very happy plants.

Make sustainable practices your new norm. When you partner with BrightView, it’s easy to implement strategies like these in your landscape care. With electric commercial landscaping equipment, a large fleet of electric and hybrid vehicles, and United States Green Building Council LEED-certified landscape consulting, we’re leading the industry in environmentally friendly solutions. Get in touch to discover what’s possible for your property.

If you’re looking to make a big difference for your landscape and the environment, you can’t go wrong with a pollinator garden. Also known as bee or wildflower gardens, pollinator gardens bring beauty and beneficial insects to your property, creating a win-win for everyone. Getting started is easy, especially with the right landscape partner by your side. Here’s what to “bee” mindful of:

Choose the Right Site

For the greatest success, pollinator gardens are best located in a spot that gets at least partial sun and isn’t too windy. If the site currently has sod, it will need to be removed, and the soil tilled prior to planting your pollinator garden. Your landscape partner can advise on the best approach. 

Pro Tip: Aim to plant in clumps of a single type of plant. It makes it easier for pollinators to find their preferred food source.

Choose Native Plants

Not only are native plants well-adapted to your region, they’re also an important food source for pollinators. Check out the website for Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, which maintains a list of native plants for each state. For year-round interest, we like to select plants that bloom in different seasons. 

Pro Tip: Beware of cultivars of native plants. Through selective breeding, these plants may have lost some of the qualities that originally made them attractive to pollinators.

Choose with Bees in Mind

According to the Xerces Society, bees are the most important group of pollinators because they spend most of their lives collecting pollen. In fact, a single female bee can visit hundreds of flowers in a single foraging trip. However, not all flowers are universally appealing. That’s because different species of bees have different tongues. Some have long tongues that work well for tubular blooms while others have short tongues that are better suited for small florets. Plant a mix of shapes and sizes to appeal to as many bee species as possible. 

Pro Tip: Save your red flowers for hummingbirds and butterflies. Bees can’t see red, but are attracted to purple, blue, white, and yellow.

Choose the Right Time to Plant

Spring is the best time to install a pollinator garden as it allows plenty of time for transplants to get established before their first winter freeze. If you live in a region with mild winters, fall planting could also be an option.

Pro Tip: It’s not uncommon for native plants to spend their first couple growing seasons establishing their root system instead of directing energy toward aboveground growth.

Choose the Right Landscape Provider

BrightView is experienced in implementing environmentally-friendly landscaping solutions—like pollinator gardens—across the country. Whether you’re looking to create unique outdoors spaces that attract top talent, promote healing, or enhance learning, our team of experts has you covered. Take the first step toward bringing your vision to life by scheduling a free consultation.

For other BrightView Landscapes stock information or other financial reports, please visit our investor website.

This Corporate Responsibility Report aims to provide a consolidated overview of BrightView’s non-financial performance. Metrics included in this Report cover our activities during the FY2024 (October 1, 2023 - September 30, 2024) period, unless otherwise noted. This Report includes select metrics from the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) Professional and Commercial Services industry standard.

Agave Assassin

The Uninvited Guest In Your Landscape

They're the scourge of the succulent world — half-inch long beetles with a serious snout problem. Meet the agave snout weevil, a tiny beetle with a big appetite and an even bigger impact on your beloved agave. This 'agave assassin' may be small, but this invasive pest has earned a spot on the "Top 100 Worst Global Invasive Species" list, and they’re rapidly spreading a reign of destruction. 

Who's Eating My Agave?

The Weevil's Deadly Cycle

Imagine this: your agave plant, once a proud and spiky centerpiece, starts to look a bit... off. The leaves droop sadly, and there's a suspicious mushiness at the base. Enter the villain of our story — the agave snout weevil. This dastardly little beetle, with its distinctive snout, burrows into the heart of agaves to lay its eggs and spread deadly bacteria. The grubs eventually burrow into the soil to pupate or grow, emerging later as a new plague of adult agave snout weevils. Their downward-curved snouts, like needles, inject deadly bacteria straight into the agave's core as they lay their eggs of destruction.

Stop the Assassination Early

Spot the Signs

• Wilted and Discolored: Lower fronds or leaves losing their spunk? Could be a sign.
• Rotten at it’s Core: A foul smell and mushy base is a telltale sign of an advanced infestation.
• Give it a Rock: If your agave wobbles with a gentle push, it's loose in the soil and time to request back-up.

The Best Defense is a Good Offense

Stop the Spread 

Don’t wait for the weevils to RSVP — the best defense against the agave snout weevil is a good offense.

• Check Newly Purchased Plants: Carefully inspect new plants for signs of stowaways or hitchhikers before planting.
• Water Wisely: Overwatering is like sending out an open invitation. Use well-draining soil to keep it dry and drama-free.
• Insecticide Armor: Suit up your succulents seasonally with a systemic insecticide soil drench — think of it as giving the agaves some extra muscle to fight from the inside out.

Evict the Invaders

Treatment & Prevention

If you discover an infestation among your succulent ranks, act quickly.

• Insecticide Intervention: Apply a systemic insecticide to affected and nearby plants. It’s like having reinforcements show up.
• Remove the Ruined: Sometimes, you've just got to clear out the troublemakers. Remove severely affected plants to prevent reinfestation.

With some diligence, you can rest easy knowing your agave garden is protected from the tiny terror of the snout weevil. 

Don't let this tiny terror ruin your landscape oasis. See how BrightView can help you stay vigilant and take proactive measures to protect your agaves from the dreaded snout weevil.

Get ready to plant trees like a boss! We're about to unleash your inner tree-whisperer with our fun and easy guide. Say goodbye to boring plantings and hello to green-thumb glory! Let's dive into the dirt and turn that sapling into a superstar. Get your shovel and let's make Mother Nature proud!"

The best way to celebrate Earth Day is outside, of course! This scavenger hunt is a fun way to find everyday sustainability superheroes in your landscape. Gather your coworkers to make it a teambuilder or take it home to enjoy with family and friends.

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HERE’S HOW TO PLAY:

• Decide if you’ll compete in small groups or individually.
• Set the parameters for how far you can search, such as within your own landscape or within the neighborhood.
• Use your phone to capture a photo of each item on the list.
• You cannot use the same answer more than once.
• Disputed answers can be settled by the organizer or a group vote.
• The first team or individual in your group to complete the scavenger hunt wins!