Winter brings icy roads and slippery sidewalks, creating hazards for pedestrians and vehicles alike. Many homeowners and property managers reach for salt to melt ice quickly, but this common solution carries hidden environmental costs. Using sand or grit instead of salt offers a safer, eco-friendly alternative that protects local ecosystems while providing effective traction. The Environmental Impact of Salt on Soil, Water, and Ecosystems Salt, primarily sodium chloride, is w