New Studies Show PFAS in Artificial Grass Blades and Backing | Environmental Working Group

PFAS Contamination in Artificial Turf

• Core Findings: Lab tests conducted by PEER and the Ecology Center confirmed the presence of PFAS ("forever chemicals") in both the grass-like blades and the backing of artificial turf.
• Source of PFAS: PFAS are utilized during the manufacturing process to make turf blades pliable enough for extrusion.
• Exposure Risks: Children are exposed through skin contact, ingestion of crumbled rubber pellets (infill), and inhalation of off-gassed chemicals. These contaminants are easily tracked into homes and vehicles via shoes and clothing.
• Health Impacts: PFAS are linked to cancer, endocrine disruption, and lower childhood immunity. Children are at higher risk due to their developing bodies and the chemicals' persistence.
• Scale of the Issue:
  • There are 12,000–13,000 artificial fields currently in use in the U.S.
  • Fields require replacement every 8–10 years, resulting in 1,200–1,500 fields being discarded annually.
  • A single deconstructed field weighs approximately 44,000 pounds; disposal and recycling processes remain opaque and problematic.
• Regulatory Status: In July, the EPA acknowledged that synthetic turf contains toxic chemicals linked to cancer, though a formal risk assessment has not been conducted.
• Expert Recommendation: The Children’s Environmental Health Center of the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai has called for a moratorium on the installation of new artificial turf fields.
• Safety Precautions for Parents:
  • Avoid letting children play on turf with bare feet.
  • Keep babies and young children away from turf to prevent ingestion.
  • Ensure thorough handwashing before eating or drinking.
  • Shower and wash hair immediately after play.
  • Shake out shoes and gear before entering the home; vacuum cars and homes regularly.