What are the environmental concerns with artificial turf?
We've analyzed scientific research pointing to various adverse impacts that artificial turf, or synthetic grass, can have on the local Placer County environment.
Some of these impacts are direct, while others are more indirect or cumulative.
Here's a summary of the key concerns raised by research in this area:
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Heat Generation: Artificial turf surfaces can get significantly hotter than natural grass, especially on sunny days, contributing to local heat island effects. This can affect local microclimates, making nearby areas warmer, which in turn can affect local flora and fauna.
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Water Runoff and Quality: Unlike natural grass, artificial turf does not absorb water, leading to increased runoff. This runoff can carry pollutants from the turf and its infill materials into local water systems. Moreover, the lack of water absorption can contribute to the urban heat island effect and affect groundwater recharge.
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Chemical Leaching: Some studies have raised concerns about chemicals leaching from the materials used in artificial turf. These chemicals include heavy metals and other potentially toxic substances found in the rubber granules used as infill. Over time, these chemicals can leach into the soil and waterways, posing a risk to local ecosystems.
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Loss of Biodiversity: Replacing natural grass with artificial turf removes the habitat for many species of flora and fauna, leading to a reduction in biodiversity. Natural grass areas support a wide range of life, from insects to birds and small mammals, which are essential for healthy ecosystems.
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Microplastic Pollution: As artificial turf ages, it can degrade into smaller pieces, contributing to microplastic pollution. These microplastics can then enter waterways and oceans, where they pose a threat to aquatic life.
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Carbon Sequestration: Unlike natural grass, artificial turf does not sequester carbon. Natural grass and the soil beneath it play a role in capturing and storing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, thus contributing to the mitigation of climate change.
While artificial turf may offer some benefits, such as reduced water use for irrigation and lower maintenance requirements, it's essential to weigh these against the potential environmental impacts. These concerns have led to debates about the sustainability and environmental friendliness of artificial turf, with many advocating for natural grass solutions or improved, eco-friendlier alternatives to artificial turf materials.
Recommendation
Planting native species in rich, nourishing soil is the way to go for our home gardens and community spaces. When it comes to our local parks and schools, nothing beats the charm of real native grass – yes, it might be a bit uneven and quirky, but it's alive and thriving. Real native grass is a perfect match for our Mediterranean climate, it's great for our local water sources, boosts biodiversity, improves the air we breathe, and helps our climate too.
Tree as Investment
"Adding a tree to your landscape is like making an investment, choose a good one and it will grow and provide shade and beauty for your family for a long time. "
Rebate Programs
City of Roseville
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What about "Cash for Grass"?
Convert your water-thirsty grass to a water efficient landscape. The City of Roseville will rebate customers $1.50 per square foot of turf grass removed and replaced with water efficient landscape up to $2000 per address.
You can also receive $3.00 per square foot for areas less than 10 feet in any direction. See terms and conditions for details.
You must participate in a pre-inspection site visit before removing your lawn. Starting without City of Roseville approval will make your conversion ineligible.
Funding is limited and applications will be accepted on a first come, first served basis. Also note that your conversion project must be completed within 120 days of your pre-inspection date; no exceptions.
WaterSmart Plant List
(California Natives, Sacramento Region, Very Low, Low, and Moderate Water-Use)
Application
Placer County
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Placer County Water Agency (PCWA)
Lawn Replacement - Receive up to a $3,000 rebate for residential customers (at a rate of $3 per square foot) and up to a $15,000 rebate for commercial customers (at a rate of $3 per square foot) for the conversion of a water-thirsty lawn to water-efficient landscaping. See program Terms & Conditions for additional information.
https://www.pcwa.net/smart-water-use/rebate-programs