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Artificial Turf on Sports Fields: Promise or Peril?
October 1, 2024 , 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm EDT
The Santa Clara County Medical Association’s Environmental Health Committee presents the 2024 Fall Environment and Health three part webinar series! In this series we look at some ways to reduce the burden of climate change and illness, understanding that our health is inextricably related to a cleaner environment and a stable climate. This second session is on artificial turf on sports fields.
Artificial turf was introduced into the sports world in 1965. Currently there are approximately 13,000 synthetic turf sport fields in the U.S. and the number is increasing. While in the past artificial turf seemed to be the best alternative for sports fields and lawns due to reduced costs, reduced water usage, and lower maintenance, newer information has come to light regarding the direct and indirect environmental and health impacts of synthetic grass. It is now recognized as a global problem. Concerns include toxic chemical and plastic pollution with risks to children and the environment, creation of urban heat island effects, sports injuries and disposal challenges, in addition to climate change impacts and water usage. A full life cycle analysis of artificial turf is needed to address the true sustainability of this product. There has been much progress made in developing state of the art drought resistant, water conserving and even organically managed grass fields that are sturdy and can be watered with non-potable recycled water. Some cities are banning artificial turf The Netherlands is poised to ban all artificial turf on sports fields by 2030 and the Dutch Eredivisie professional football league is banning plastic pitches from the 2025/26 season. Our expert speakers will review the health risks of artificial turf as well as the different components used, alternatives to artificial turf and ways to stay safe on artificial turf.
