Green Grass Lawns are Classist

The tradition of green grass lawns is deeply entrenched in classism, perpetuating social inequalities and restricting access to the “American dream.” Let’s examine the history and implications of this problematic practice.

To comprehend the classist nature of lawns, we must delve into their historical context. The infatuation with lawns emerged in the 19th century, inspired by the opulent gardens of Europe, which themselves symbolized wealth and power. As the American economy thrived, lawns became a display of prosperity, with a well-maintained lawn seen as a marker of success.

Following World War II, the notion of the “perfect lawn” became intertwined with the American dream, representing homeownership and prosperity accessible to hardworking Americans. Suburbia further amplified this image, as manicured lawns became physical manifestations of that dream.

Moreover, maintaining these lawns demands significant resources, particularly water. The non-drought-resistant grasses require an astonishing equivalent of 200 gallons of drinking water per person per day. This wastage is particularly egregious in regions plagued by drought, such as California and British Columbia.

The demand for excessive water is inherently classist, as not everyone can afford to sustain a lush green lawn, especially in water-scarce areas. This practice effectively gatekeeps the “American dream,” making it accessible only to those who have the means to maintain these water-intensive landscapes.

Green Grass Lawns – The Downfall of Indigenous Culture

Green grass lawns not only perpetuate classism but also pose a threat to indigenous cultures. The grass species used in these lawns are not native to North America, serving as a stark reminder of our colonial past. The adherence to green grass lawns and the associated stigma has marginalized sustainable practices, perpetuating the erasure of indigenous culture and knowledge. 

The introduction of non-native grass species in the pursuit of the “perfect lawn” displaces and eradicates native plants that hold cultural significance to indigenous communities. The dominance of foreign grasses erases the connection to ancestral lands and disrupts the delicate ecological balance that indigenous cultures have carefully cultivated for generations.

Golf Courses – The Curse of the Middle Class

Golf courses exemplify the wastefulness and classism inherent in the obsession with green grass lawns. The pursuit of impeccably maintained golf courses further exacerbates the divide between social classes and exacerbates water wastage.

The reputation of the Augusta National Golf Club, showcased during the 1966 Masters Golf Tournament, established a new standard for perfectly manicured lawns. However, the maintenance of such golf courses requires an even more exorbitant amount of water, reinforcing the perception of golf as a sport for the affluent while contributing to excessive water consumption.

The perpetuation of these lawns and golf courses deepens the disparity between the haves and have-nots, acting as a constant reminder of unequal access to resources and perpetuating classism.

Grass is No Help to Pollinators

In addition to the social implications, green grass lawns offer little to no support for pollinators. 

The monoculture created by vast expanses of manicured lawns provides limited resources and habitats for pollinators. 

The pressure to conform to the lawn aesthetic suppresses the practices of growing vegetable and herb gardens or allowing indigenous plants to thrive naturally. These alternative approaches, deeply rooted in indigenous cultures, offer low-maintenance, eco-friendly, and beneficial alternatives to resource-intensive lawns.