Smart, Safe, Sustainable: Exploring the Eco-Friendly Benefits of a Moss Removal Machine Over Chemical Treatments

Moss growth on pavements, driveways and industrial surfaces is a common problem across the UK and Ireland. Damp weather creates the perfect breeding ground for moss, leaving surfaces slippery, unsafe and unsightly. While chemical treatments have long been the go-to solution, growing environmental awareness and tighter regulations mean there’s now a smarter, safer and more sustainable way to tackle the issue — a moss removal machine.

Across the UK, more facilities managers, contractors and homeowners are making the switch to mechanical moss removal. It’s a fast, effective and environmentally responsible way to keep outdoor areas safe and looking their best, without relying on harsh chemicals.

The Eco-Friendly Benefits of a Westermann Moss Removal Machine Over Chemical Treatments

Efficiency Without Compromise

Moss removal machines like the Westermann Moss Brush WR870 are designed to tackle moss quickly and effectively without the need for harsh substances. Unlike chemical sprays, which often require multiple applications and waiting periods, a moss removal machine provides immediate results.

  • Instant cleaning: Mossy surfaces are cleared on the spot, reducing downtime for businesses or public spaces.
  • Precision performance: A machine targets the moss directly, leaving the surrounding areas intact.
  • Versatile applications: From block paving, concrete, tarmac, brick/stone setts, sports surfaces and rubber play surfaces, a Westermann machine can handle various surfaces - one piece of kit for multiple situations.
  • Cost savings: By eliminating repeat chemical treatments, businesses and property owners can save on long-term maintenance costs. Less time spent on grounds maintenance means more time to focus on other important tasks!

Protecting People and Property

Traditional moss removal methods such as chemical treatments and pressure washing (which are often used in conjunction with each other) involve harsh chemicals and excessive water usage. 

Chemical moss killers often contain biocides or herbicides that pose risks to people, pets and wildlife and can persist in the environment, leading to long-term ecological damage. The runoff can also harm plants by contaminating the soil and polluting waterways. By contrast, moss removal machines deliver a dry and non-toxic solution:

  • Slip prevention: Immediate moss removal restores safe walking and working surfaces.
  • No hazardous residues: A moss removal machine leaves no chemical traces behind, making it ideal for schools, parks and residential areas.
  • Operator-friendly design: Westermann machines are easy to use and straightforward, with ergonomic designs to minimise physical strain and plenty of handy, easily adjustable features.

Reducing Environmental Impact

The UK is increasingly focused on sustainability, with councils, businesses and homeowners looking for greener practices. Many UK Councils have banned the use of glyphosate and are now pesticide-free, or are in the process of phasing out their usage of pesticides, due to their negative impact on both the environment and the health of the public. A moss removal machine supports these goals by offering an eco-friendly alternative to these harmful chemical treatments:

  • Chemical-free cleaning: No biocides means no risk of contaminating soil or water.
  • Energy-efficient designs: Many modern machines use low-emission engines or electric power.
  • Waste minimisation: Moss is simply collected and composted, turning a problem into a resource.

The UK’s unpredictable weather, alongside strict environmental legislation, make chemical-free solutions even more valuable. Facilities managers and contractors can benefit from compliance with UK environmental standards, reduced liability from slips, trips and falls, and improved public perception by adopting sustainable practices. By investing in sustainable outdoor cleaning technology now, you can demonstrate environmental responsibility while staying ahead of regulatory changes.

While we already champion the Westermann Honda Moss Brush WR870 as an eco-friendly solution to moss removal, if you’re looking to take your environmental practices even further, then you might be interested in our recently launched EGO battery-powered model.

Powered by a professional-grade EGO battery system, the Westermann EGO Battery Moss Brush delivers up to 2 hours of zero-emission, low-noise performance per charge. It’s ideal for those working in noise-sensitive or eco-conscious environments.

What’s more, this new model has only just hit the market and is already winning awards! We were delighted when the Westermann WR870 EGO Battery Moss Brush took home the prize for best Landscape Equipment at GroundsFest as part of the first-ever GroundsFest Innovation Awards last month. We’re beyond proud to have the Westermann EGO Moss Brush recognised as a piece of equipment that is shaping the future of the sector. Find out more about this innovative new battery-powered Westermann Moss Brush here.

The Westermann Moss Brush: The Future of Moss Management

Westermann moss removal machines represent the next step in eco-friendly surface maintenance. Combining efficiency with safety and sustainability with cost-effectiveness, making the switch from chemical treatments to mechanical moss removal solutions isn’t just a smart choice, it’s the future of moss management.

Looking to upgrade your moss removal strategy? Explore the Westermann range of eco-friendly machinery designed to keep outdoor surfaces safe, clean and sustainable.

New Westermann Machines in the EGO Battery Range

After the success of the new Westermann EGO Battery Moss Brush, we’re delighted to be adding Westermann Weed Rippers to the EGO range. The Westermann WKB430 Weed Ripper and WKB660 Weed Ripper models are also being rolled out with a professional-grade EGO 56V battery system to take your eco-friendly hard surface cleaning to the next level. Eliminate thick moss and stubborn weeds all with EGO power – zero chemicals and zero emissions!

Westermann WR870 EGO Battery Moss Brush
Westermann WKB430 EGO Battery Weed Ripper
Westermann WKB660 EGO Battery Weed Ripper

Contact us

If you’re looking for new garden maintenance machines, here at SPA Power Machinery we stock a range of Westermann equipment, from ride-on brushes to sweepers and scrapers, that are ready to get the job done.

If you’d like to know more about using Westermann machinery for garden and grounds maintenance purposes, please get in touch with us via the contact form on our website, or you can call us on +44 (0)114 2699 119 or email info@spapowermachinery.com.