Are rubber granules on artificial grass carcinogenic?

Answer

Thanks for the very fair question.
The scattering of rubber granules is not without danger to people and the environment.
Initially, the artificial turf fields were sprinkled with crushed discarded car tires. They thought this was a fantastic idea to recycle the tires, but how short-sighted can one be… Car tires are produced on the basis of SBR (styrene butadiene rubber), to which about 30% of all kinds of substances are added to obtain the desired properties. These substances are not salt and pepper. The dangers of the infilled rubber came to light in the Netherlands. I invite you to watch the following reports:

https://www.bnnvara.nl/zembla/videos/281606

https://www.bnnvara.nl/zembla/ articles/nieuwe-kankervergevere-stoffen-aangetreff-in-rubbergranulaat

The scattering of crushed car tires is therefore completely irresponsible.

When using virgin rubber, however, this is not without risks. Inhaling and swallowing rubber is never healthy.
The rubber also spreads in the wider area of ​​the artificial grass pitches and thus ends up in nature. We know the consequences of the plastic soup, it is high time that measures were taken to prevent plastic in the ground.

The key question remains ‘What is the use of synthetic turf pitches?’ It is a very profitable business for the companies, but for the athlete and the environment it produces more disadvantages than advantages and it introduces health risks.

In response to your question, I am happy to share my concern. When driving, the tires and road surface wear out. The particulate matter that is created as a result is also full of toxic substances that end up in nature and in humans. I’ve voiced this concern several times, but people are scrupulously keeping this jar covered…

Share this answer with anyone who wants to hear it, as consumers we have an important voice in the transition to a healthy and sustainable society.

Karine Van Doorsselaer, Senior Lecturer in Materials Theory and Ecodesign, University of Antwerp, Department of Product Development