Can We Find a Better Way to Melt Snow? America uses tons of rock salt to de-ice roads, but the chemical is harmful to the environment and concrete. Emerging methods could reduce the need for machines, salt, and high snowplow budgets. Scott Beyer, Urban Issues Columnist | January 6, 2021 | Opinion Last month, following four years of relatively mild winters, a severe storm blanketed the eastern seaboard, giving much of the nation more than a foot of snow. Over Christmas week, another storm covered the Midwest, causing dangerous driving conditions. This has put the snow removal process — and how it might improve — in renewed focus for local and state officials.