Maria Girich, Researcher of the International Best Practices Analysis Department at the Gaidar Institute, commented to Rossiyskaya Gazeta on a parliamentary initiative to ban the use of chemical reagents in pedestrian areas. The expert confirmed that such a ban is a justified measure, as chemicals cause serious damage to city lawns and water bodies, accumulating in snow dumps and entering the ecosystem after melting.
"According to various studies, between 10 and 60% of the applied salt ends up in shallow groundwater, some of which penetrates in groundwater that reaches the surface. This water can then be used for irrigation or end up in public swimming areas, causing harm," the expert explained.
The expert suggested to consider to the experience of other countries as an alternative: "Sand or granite chippings may be more environmentally friendly, as these materials can be collected, cleaned, and reused. It is alleged in the US and EU that controlling of the overuse of reagents should be done, including more careful tracking of usage and proper storage," she added.