Want to rip up your astroturf? You’re not alone as environmental concerns grow

Once seen as an effortless way to maintain a tidy lawn, artificial turf is falling out of fashion due to concerns about its impact on the environment.

The latest survey shows that more than half of people with plastic grass in their garden would like it removed.

And almost the same number of people would support government policies discouraging the use of synthetic turf across the board – something recently considered by the Welsh Government.

The main reason for turning the tide against fake grass is the increasing awareness about its impact on the environment and wildlife.

Overall, 58 percent of those surveyed by the insurance company Churchill said they wanted their artificial turf removed, with 44 percent citing the negative impact on the environment.

Others said it was impractical and had caused problems in their yard.

A quarter said they had noticed an increase in water runoff patterns and drainage problems.

And 9 percent of people had noticed the presence of local wildlife and the decline in biodiversity.

As many as 45 percent would support policies or initiatives aimed at discouraging the use of synthetic turf in residential gardens.

Dr. Mark Gush, from the Royal Horticultural Society, said: ‘Plastic grass is bad for the environment for many reasons. Climate change is caused by too many greenhouse gases in the air – such as carbon dioxide – and plastic grass contributes to this.

‘Fossil fuels are used to make it, and it’s also hard to get rid of – the fake grass usually has to go in the trash when it’s worn out and ends up in landfill.

‘Alternatively, real grass lawns offer many environmental benefits, including absorbing carbon dioxide, producing oxygen, cooling the air and creating a home for wildlife, especially insects.

“Natural grass and flowers are part of a renewable cycle, so cuttings can be used to make compost, which adds nutrients back to the soil.”

Gush added: ‘Plastic grass can’t do all of this and creates a sterile, lifeless place in the yard. Even worse, plastic grass can get extremely hot and contaminate the soil below, which has been shown to be harmful to earthworms.

“Plastic grass can exacerbate flooding and release small pieces of plastic, known as microfibers, into the environment that are harmful to animal and human health.

‘At the RHS we know that sustainability is extremely important, not only for nature but also for people. Due to its harmful effects, in 2018 we banned the sale of plastic grass at our flower shows and in 2021 it is prohibited to use it in any way at our shows.

‘We recommend that people look at the many habitats their natural lawns can provide, for example by growing areas long and flowers growing through the turf, they will provide food for pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

“We encourage everyone to use real grass and flowers in their garden because of the many benefits and enjoyment they bring to us and the natural world.”

The Churchill survey found that one in five of those who have or plan to install synthetic turf – up from 17 per cent – wrongly assume it is better for the environment.

This is despite the majority – 61 percent – ​​understanding that synthetic turf does not allow wildlife and biodiversity to thrive and can contribute to water and runoff problems.

This can affect the outdoor space, especially since most people’s gardens contain flowers and plants (71 percent) and trees or shrubs (63 percent).

Of those with artificial turf in their gardens or outdoor areas, 25 percent noticed more water drainage patterns and drainage problems.

Most artificial grass is made of plastic, an impermeable material that, like natural grass, can prevent rainwater from being absorbed by the ground.

At the same time, 9 percent noticed an impact on the prevalence of wildlife in their yard since installing artificial turf.

A significant number said that artificial grass is not aesthetically pleasing, with 40 percent of those without artificial grass admitting they do not like the look.

And one in two people – 49 percent – agree that synthetic turf has a negative impact on the overall aesthetics of residential areas.

In addition, 45 percent would go so far as to support policies or initiatives aimed at discouraging the use of synthetic turf in residential gardens.

Nearly half (42 percent) of those with artificial turf now say they prefer the look of real grass.

Of those considering buying or selling a home with artificial turf, 50 percent do not believe it will add any value to the property.

Sarah Khan, of Churchill Home Insurance, said: ‘While the low maintenance cost of artificial turf initially appealed to some, especially those with pets, roofs, balconies or small spaces, our research shows that the artificial turf trend has gone out of fashion .

‘It is important to consider the negative impact of synthetic turf on the environment, especially given the large number of Britons who enjoy otherwise natural gardens, with plants and visiting wildlife.’