Roddy Scheer Explores: Is Artificial Turf Harmful to Our Health and the Environment?

Artificial turf fields are gaining popularity due to their low maintenance needs; there’s no mowing or watering required. In North America, there are over 18,000 synthetic fields, with about 1,500 new ones popping up each year.

These fields are sold as durable and green-looking alternatives to natural grass. However, they come with health concerns. For instance, cities like Boston are banning them due to worries about safety.

What’s in artificial turf? At the surface, there are plastic blades, and underneath, there’s a backing layer and cushioning infill. Unfortunately, some of the infill, often made from recycled car tires, contains harmful chemicals. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has found substances like benzene, arsenic, and lead in this crumb rubber. Even alternatives touted as “safer” have shown similar risks.

Children may be particularly vulnerable due to their developing bodies. They may inhale, absorb, or ingest chemicals from the turf more easily. Researchers have highlighted that many toxic chemicals can seep into groundwater when it rains. A study revealed that areas near synthetic fields had contaminants linked to these materials.

Moreover, artificial turf can increase local temperatures. Studies show surface temperatures can reach up to 200°F, adding to a phenomenon known as urban heat islands. Unlike natural grass, which cools the environment and captures carbon, artificial turf lacks these benefits.

While the lifespan of artificial turf is about eight to ten years, disposing of it creates more waste. Right now, research into the health impacts of these fields is not comprehensive. Most studies have focused on crumb rubber rather than broader health effects. Yale epidemiologist Vasilis Vasiliou warns parents to think twice before letting kids play on synthetic surfaces.

If you do choose artificial turf, consider taking precautions. Ventilating indoors, showering after playing, and cleaning up any bits that come home with kids can help. Be wary of labels that use terms like “organic” or “eco,” as they are not strictly regulated. It’s wise to ask manufacturers for a complete list of materials used.

Historically, artificial turf has expanded rapidly over recent decades, but ongoing discussions about its safety and environmental impact are intensifying. As awareness grows, communities are increasingly questioning whether the benefits of convenience outweigh the potential risks.

For more in-depth information on the environmental and health impacts of artificial turf, check this study by PubMed.

In conclusion, while artificial turf offers a convenient solution for some, the health and environmental implications should not be overlooked. For the sake of our children and our planet, this is a conversation worth having.

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