Comments on: Is Artificial Turf Safe?

By: Astroturf and xeriscaping–part of the solution or the problem? | Poliakoff on Condo HOA Living

Thu, 23 Sep 2010 00:18:54 +0000

[...] Global Healing Center Environment and Human Health Environmental Headlines [...]

By: steve

steve — Mon, 20 Sep 2010 12:05:04 +0000

We have a 12 yr old son who is playing soccer. Every field in our area (Seattle/Bellevue WA) have these artifical turf fields. So first, this has nothing to do with if are children are going to be pro athletes or not. Secondly, it appears all the fields in our area that were built in the last couple years and the new current ones that have recently been built, all have these crumbs. And infact, the fields do smell like a tire factory. We also have a 2 year old son, and the last game he was rolling around and the crumbs kept getting in his mouth. Of course we wiped them out, but still how safe can this be? This is concerning and we may want to voice our concerns to city officals, govt agencies, and our congressmen.

By: aronjon

aronjon — Tue, 27 Jul 2010 13:16:09 +0000

that might be true but, is the money being spent on the right thing? i thought kids went to school to learn for their future. how many kids will be pro athletes?

By: Mackenzie Smith

Mackenzie Smith — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 00:43:14 +0000

There have been many advances in synthetic grass in the recent years. I too had heard about these dangers when my husband and I were looking to install synthetic grass in our backyard. I did a lot of research before making my decision. Though some companies do use these toxic fillers, others have made technological advances to increase safety. We decided to use Zero Turf, a company specializing in san diego artificial turf that contains no traces of lead or other RCRA hazardous waste heavy metals. Our lawn is not only beautiful and low maintenance, it also environmentally friendly and safe!

By: Aaron Zhao

Aaron Zhao — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 06:15:10 +0000

Your news are out of time!
The new generation artificial turf are totally environmental friendly and no harm to heath at all. new generation artificial turf needs no infill material so there is no crumbs at all. new generation artificial turf also called VIVATURF, you can easily find more information on line.

By: Jennifer

Jennifer — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:40:46 +0000

Though there are health and environmental impact issues relating to rubber infill used in artificial turf solutions, there are many new developments in the industry. Companies are now offering synthetic grass products that do not require infill. Also, you can find rubber infill alternatives that satisfy the same requirements.

By: Beeswax

Beeswax — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 20:51:38 +0000

Thanks for the heads up on this, I didn’t realize what it was actually made out of. Jen brings up a good point about the chemicals on the grass… how about a dirt field?

By: Gabrielle

Gabrielle — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 02:28:11 +0000

Very informative article. Never even thought about the dangers of playing on artificial turfs.

By: David Neault

David Neault — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 22:50:32 +0000

It really isn’t a toss up. The health issue is one of many. Environmentally, artificial turf is a disaster. It contributes to Urban Heat Island Effect and replaces the natural grasses carbon sequestration ability, air and water filtration and cooling effect on the environment. Good natural turf management is not dependent on chemicals. Weather based irrigation controllers, underground watering systems and the use of reclaimed water reduce watering needs tremendously. Actually, the athletic artificial turf wastes (at tremendous volumes) potable water! My blog has a lot of information on the subject.

By: Jen Boda

Jen Boda — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 00:09:17 +0000

Its such a tossup. Chemicals from astroturf or the use of an amazing amount of water and fertilizers to keep playing fields green. I am not sure which to prefer.