Even though earlier media reports stated that the EU was about to introduce a legislation prohibiting the use of artificial turf on playing surfaces, The European Commission stated that the information was misleading. The authoritative body added that it was only focusing its work on health risks posed by some microplastics and looking into developing its sustainable substitutes.

What’s more, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) is now conducting consultation on microplastics applications that are used as additives in cleaners and other products such as cosmetics and fertilizers. However, it does not define tire-derived infill granulates as “intentionally added microplastics” in sports fields and playgrounds. Crumb rubber infill is one of the key components for artificial turf which is derived from recycled scrap tires.

Press release by EUWID.