The future of sustainable energy looks to alternative materials
Making a difference: Jim Casper
September 2, 2024
NORTH CENTRAL WISCONSIN – Aspirus Health (Aspirus) has introduced autonomous lawn mowers at six locations in its system, including:
- Aspirus Wausau Hospital
- Aspirus Inc. corporate office (Wausau)
- Aspirus Divine Savior Hospital (Portage)
- Aspirus Merrill Hospital
- Aspirus Rhinelander Hospital
- Aspirus Tomahawk Hospital.
Andrew Miller, director of system facilities management and security for Aspirus, said the switch from gas-powered to autonomous was an easy choice, as they help reduce the environmental impact of healthcare institution’s lawn maintenance and deliver a higher value to the landscape operations and campuses.
Miller said the mowers use navigation technology, sensors and programming and can operate rain or shine, night or day.
Aspirus Inc. corporate office maintenance teams, he said, built solar charging stations for the mowers to minimize electrical usage and costs.
Miller said other benefits of the autonomous mowers include:
- A reduction of air pollution and noise pollution
- Zero direct emission production during operation
- Less energy and maintenance needs
- A minimized need for fertilizers and chemicals because the mowers’ lightweight bodies and sharp cutting blades don’t compact soil
Miller said plans are being developed to roll out autonomous mowers at other Aspirus Health locations in the future.
