The Turf Trouble: Microplastics in Play
Artificial turf fields, while popular for their durability and low maintenance, are now being recognized as significant contributors to microplastic pollution. These fields shed synthetic fibers and rubber infill, which is often made from recycled tires, during regular use like sporting events, and of course natural weathering. Heavy rainfall events then wash these particles into stormwater systems, where they eventually reach local waterways.
Recent studies have identified over 350 chemicals in tire crumb rubber, including known carcinogens and neurotoxicants. Among the most concerning is 6PPD-quinone, a compound linked to fish mortality in urban runoff. Additionally, turf fields are a source of PFAS, the so-called “forever chemicals,” which have been detected in groundwater near turf installations at levels exceeding safety thresholds.
Urban stormwater runoff now carries up to six times more microplastics than wastewater treatment plant effluents. These particles range from packaging debris to tire wear and turf infill, and they pose serious risks to aquatic ecosystems and human health. Once in the environment, microplastics can absorb toxic chemicals and bioaccumulate through the food chain.
While green infrastructure solutions like bioretention systems and permeable pavements have shown promise in filtering microplastics, they are not always feasible for large-scale sports field installations.
Titan Environmental’s Geomembranes: A Smarter Field Solution
Enter Manitoba based Titan Environmental, whose innovative Sports Field Geomembrane offer a proactive solution to the turf field microplastics dilemma. In a recent project for the Niagara Catholic District School Board, Titan’s Multi-Flow™ drainage system and geosynthetics were used to create a high-performance sports field that prioritizes environmental safety.
Titan’s geomembranes help contain and direct runoff, preventing microplastics and other contaminants from entering stormwater systems. By reinforcing the subbase and improving drainage, these systems reduce the migration of infill and synthetic fibers—addressing the root of the problem rather than just treating the symptoms. These types of solutions paired with Fabco’s support products, like the StormBasin and Microplastic cartridges, is a recipe for success when it comes to solving the growing microplastics problem.
As regulations tighten and public awareness grows, the stormwater management industry must adapt. Luckily, that’s what we do best at Fabco Industries! Whether through custom advanced filtration systems or working together with innovators like Titan Environmental, we’re committed to keeping microplastics out of our stormwater, ecosystems and communities!
Our range of cost-effective, durable products are designed to meet increasingly stringent pollution control regulations and best management practices for municipal and commercial stormwater markets.
We offer sustainable, simple-to-maintain filtration solutions to meet virtually any stormwater pollution control challenge. Innovative technology. Proven performance. Unbeatable quality and value.
For more information on how Fabco products can help with your project, reach out to our nationwide distributor, Ferguson Waterworks or reach out to us directly at sales@fabco-industries.com!
Ferguson is the largest U.S. distributor of plumbing supplies, PVF, waterworks, and fire and fabrication products.