A recent research study conducted by the University of British Columbia has highlighted the potential environmental harm caused by artificial turf fields in Metro Vancouver, specifically noting the release of a chemical detrimental to coho salmon. The study, recently featured in the journal Environmental Science Processes & Impacts, identified the presence of 6PPD-quinone, a hazardous chemical, leaching into stormwater systems from the crumb rubber infill commonly used in artificial turf.
Rachel Scholes, an assistant professor at UBC and one of the study’s authors, explained that the black rubber infill in artificial turf fields is essentially ground-up used tires, raising concerns of potential contamination when it rains. Researchers investigated 12 fields across Metro Vancouver, collecting infill samples and stormwater from three fields during rain events, with field ages ranging from one to 14 years.
The study revealed that the issue of chemical contamination is persistent in both new and older fields, as these fields can continuously release pollutants over their lifespan, extending beyond a decade. Katie Moloney, a PhD student in environmental engineering at UBC, emphasized that even small amounts of the chemical can be harmful to aquatic life, such as coho salmon and juvenile cutthroat trout.
The study also found that synthetic turf fields, which are increasingly popular in Vancouver due to their year-round usability and revenue generation, could pose environmental risks, including the release of microplastics and the need for improved stormwater management. To address these concerns, the Vancouver Park Board has shifted away from using crumb rubber infill and now advocates for inert and non-toxic infill materials like EPDM rubber.
Other municipalities, such as Surrey and Burnaby, are actively monitoring the issue and implementing measures to minimize environmental impacts. Suggestions to mitigate risks include using alternative infill materials and installing treatment systems to capture contaminants before they enter waterways. Researchers underscore the importance of addressing these environmental challenges associated with artificial turf fields to safeguard aquatic ecosystems.
