All-weather sports turf Debate

Environmental Benefits - Ecosystems & Biodiversity

Option 1

Residents opposing the installation of an all-weather sports turf highlighted significant environmental concerns. They emphasized that artificial turf contributes to pollution through microplastics, which can harm marine life and subsequently human health, especially given the turf's proximity to water bodies. Additionally, they pointed out that replacing natural grass with artificial turf would eliminate the natural benefits of grass, such as cooling and moisture absorption, and exacerbate the heat island effect.

Table of comments:

Point No	Comment
785.6	Turf is plastic. Plastic is one of the most polluting and terrible things for the environment as it takes 500 years to decompose. In addition, the weather, wear and tear, and general build of plastic releases microplastic which are even more dangerous to humans, animals, and the land. With the turf being so close to the water, this would directly pour those microscopic particles closer to the ocean to be eaten by fish which then would be eaten by us. In addition, plastic is a hormone disruptor and can greatly impact human health. Sliding, falling, and being around this will only be worse for all of us. Also, it doesn't look pretty. Please don't choose turf and fight for the environment and the local community.
1155.6	While it does require continual mowing and waterinbmg, artificial turf has a large carbon footprint, and you lose the benefits of grass, such as cooling and moisture absorption.
1198.2	I do not support artificial turf as it is both a heat sink (creator of the heat island effect) and sheds micro plastics into waterways and the environment.  Where sports fields are implemented use living grasses.