A recent study conducted by the University of British Columbia has highlighted the environmental concerns surrounding artificial turf fields in Metro Vancouver. The study, recently published in the journal Environmental Science Processes & Impacts, revealed that these fields are releasing a harmful chemical, 6PPD-quinone, which poses a threat to coho salmon.
Researchers linked this pollution to the crumb rubber infill used in artificial turf, which is essentially ground-up recycled tires. The study collected samples from 12 fields across Metro Vancouver and stormwater from the drainage systems of three fields during rainstorms. They discovered that even older fields can continue to release pollutants over their lifespan, which can extend beyond a decade.
Katie Moloney, a PhD student in environmental engineering at UBC, highlighted that the release of 6PPD-quinone from these fields can have lethal effects on aquatic life, particularly coho salmon. The researchers emphasized the need for environmental controls, such as using alternative infill materials and implementing treatment systems to mitigate the risk posed by these chemicals.
The City of Vancouver’s continued investment in synthetic turf fields, as outlined in its 10-year sports field strategy, has raised concerns about the increasing use of these fields despite the environmental impact. While synthetic fields offer year-round usability and cost recovery benefits, there is a growing awareness of the need for better stormwater management and environmental considerations.
In response to the study’s findings, the Vancouver Park Board stated that it no longer uses crumb rubber infill in its fields and supports the use of inert and non-toxic infill materials. Other municipalities like Surrey and Burnaby are also monitoring the issue and taking steps to address concerns about artificial turf fields and their potential impact on aquatic ecosystems.
Researchers recommended using alternative infill materials and implementing treatment systems to capture contaminants before they enter waterways, suggesting that these measures could help reduce the risk posed to salmon and other species by artificial turf fields.
