Debates over natural versus artificial turf continue. Where artificial wins, actually, is when it comes to being green. The Synthetic Turf Council announced that as of this year the estimated total amount of synthetic turf installed in North America conserves more than three billion gallons of water, significantly reduces smog emissions, eliminates close to a billion pounds of harmful fertilizers and pesticides, and recycles more than 105 million used tires.
One company working on the green on the green is Liberty Tire Recycling, a Pittsburg-based manufacturer of eco-friendly crumb rubber used to create synthetic turf. Crumb rubber derived from recycled tires creates a performance-friendly surface for multiple sports. It creates infill for sports fields and paving for running tracks. The crumb rubber adds cushioning and springiness to protect athletes and give energy back on impact of running and other activities. Crumb Rubber dries quickly, drains excess moisture, reduces dust and mud, and minimizes freezing.
Some of the benefits to the environment for artificial surfaces include:
- Conserves more than three billion gallons of water.
- Eradicates the use of close to a billion pounds of pesticides and fertilizers.
- Lowers consumption of energy, raw materials and solid waste generation.
- Keeps more than 105 million used tires out of landfills.
- Prevents smog and noxious emissions.
- Reduces grass clippings.