Woodstock, Illinois has earned recognition as an American Green Zone Alliance (AGZA) Certified Robotic Green Zone, with 29 commercial acres now maintained using electric and robotic equipment. The certification marks a significant shift toward sustainable landscaping practices in the region, led by local firm Langton Group’s transition to battery-powered and autonomous mowing solutions.
National Movement for Quieter Communities
AGZA President Dan Mabe emphasized the growing nationwide demand for cleaner landscaping alternatives. “From coast to coast, communities are recognizing the benefits of eliminating gas-powered equipment,” Mabe said. The certification program helps reduce noise pollution by 40-70% while cutting emissions, improving both environmental quality and residential wellbeing.
Local Company Leads Sustainable Transition
Langton Group, a 250-employee landscape firm, is converting its client base to daily robotic mowing using Husqvarna Automowers through its subsidiary Automated Outdoor Solutions. The company is implementing off-grid charging stations to support the electric equipment while developing specialized eco-service contracts for property maintenance.
Environmental and Operational Benefits
“Beyond reducing our carbon footprint, we’re delivering superior results with lawns maintained at optimal length daily,” said Langton Group CEO Joe Langton. The automated approach allows consistent, precision cutting while eliminating the noise and emissions associated with traditional gas mowers – benefits particularly valuable for commercial properties and residential areas.
Model for Sustainable Landscaping
As one of Illinois’ first AGZA-certified zones, Woodstock’s initiative demonstrates how communities can implement cleaner landscaping practices. The partnership between AGZA, Langton Group, and equipment manufacturers like Husqvarna creates a replicable model for other municipalities seeking to reduce environmental impact while maintaining high-quality grounds maintenance standards.
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