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13
Aug 2020
New technology to tackle weeds in Harrogate, Knaresborough and Ripon
In a pilot scheme, North Yorkshire County Council will begin using a machine that uses hot water insulated by biodegradable foam.
New technology will tackle weeds in Harrogate, Knaresborough and Ripon town centres following the coronavirus lockdown.
In a pilot scheme, North Yorkshire County Council will begin using a machine that uses hot water insulated by biodegradable foam – made from plant oils and sugars – to keep the liquid hot to kill weeds and moss right at their root without the use of harsh chemicals such as herbicide.
The Foamstream machine also sterilises surrounding seeds and spores to stop weeds spreading and then kills or damages the plant to prevent regrowth.
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As well as killing weeds, the machine is able to clean chewing gum off roads.
If the pilot is a success, the council said they will use the machines across the county.
Cllr Don Mackenzie, executive member for highways at NYCC said the machine will help make town centres more attractive. He said:
"I welcome the use of this new, environment-friendly technological way to get rid of weeds from our roads and footpaths. This is particularly suited to our town centres, where a clean, weed-free streetscene is good for businesses, shoppers and visitors."
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