The European Union does not ban artificial turf
The recent approval of Regulation (EU) 2023/2055 by the European Commission has generated some concern among artificial turf users. The alarming media coverage has led people to believe that the use of artificial turf would be completely banned. However, this news has been misinterpreted and in reality what has been approved is a stricter regulation for certain materials used by manufacturers.
Regulation (EU) 2023/2055 does NOT ban artificial turf.
It is essential to explain that this regulation does NOT prohibit artificial turf, but focuses on regulating the infill or substrate of artificial turf, specifically in relation to microplastics. To clarify possible doubts, we are going to detail the most important aspects of this regulation and how it affects:
Does not affect decorative artificial turf
The first and most important clarification is that the REACH Regulation does not affect decorative artificial turf, that is, the one that is installed in gardens, terraces, interiors, public areas and businesses. In short, the one we sell in our online store Artificial Garden. This type of artificial grass is installed without infill or with silica infill, rubber is never used as an alternative, therefore, its use and installation will remain as to date. In addition, decorative artificial grass is a sustainable and eco-friendly option due to the low water consumption required for its maintenance.
Alternatives allowed
From the date of entry into force of the regulation, i.e. after October 17, 2031, no new artificial turf fields with infill granulates considered microplastics, smaller than 5 mm in size, may be installed. However, the installation of artificial sports turf fields using more sustainable and environmentally friendly alternatives with organic infill such as cork, wood or olive pits will be allowed.
There is a moratorium of 8 years until its application.
The regulation establishes a moratorium of 8 years from October 17, 2023. During this period, the installation of
Continued use of previously installed fields
It is important to emphasize that, after the 2031 ban date, the use of previously installed fields using these granulates will not be prohibited, nor will they be forced to be deinstalled and disposed of. Existing fields may continue to be used without problems.
In summary, the new EU regulation does NOT ban artificial turf, but focuses on the regulation of certain types of infill (those containing microplastics) in artificial sports turf. This regulation seeks to promote sustainability and environmental protection. But you, the clients of Artificial Grass can rest assured, this regulation does NOT affect you.
In Artificial Garden we are also aware of the care of the environment, that’s why among our models of artificial grass we include ecological and sustainable alternatives offering 100% recyclable artificial grass for our customers.
If you want to know more about these recyclable models, please read our blog article in which we explain their characteristics.
