Astroturfing is bad for the environment — and not just metaphorically. New research suggests that athletes playing on artificial turf may be exposed to higher levels of toxic PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” than those who play on real grass, raising concerns about the safety of these fields. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances are released from fake grass blades and can be inhaled, ingested, absorbed through the skin, or enter through open wounds, according to public health advocates.
One small study, released in March by the nonprofit Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility (PEER), tested a group of six-year-old soccer players (and their coach) on artificial and natural turf, finding higher PFAS levels on those who played on artificial turf. The dangers may not end there. PEER also warns that many artificial fields are made from shredded tires, which are toxic and can contain “dangerously high levels of lead, arsenic, cadmium, chromium, mercury, and a number of dangerous hydrocarbons, with potential toxicity to children and athletes.”
