Why are gas leaf blowers so offensive? Well, no one wants parasites blowin' with the wind. * They pollute the air. A single gas-powered leaf blower can emit as much pollution in a year as 80 cars. * They're noisy. A normal decibel level, considered acceptable in residential areas, is about 60 decibels (60dB). Every increase in decibels means noise that is 10 times louder. Leaf-blowers usually generate about 70-75 dB. According to the U.S. EPA this level of noise actually degrades quality of life by interfering with communication and sleep, leads to reduced accuracy of work and increased levels of aggravation, which can linger hours after exposure. * They worsen allergies and asthma and irritate the lungs. Because they operate at such high velocities, leaf blowers stir up the mold, allergens, and dust particles (dried FECES) that otherwise have been tamped down with rain and decomposition. * They waste gas. Rakes and even electric-lawn blowers offer a petroleum-free alternative.