Combating Artificial Turf : Let’s Get Back to Grass

Join Taylor McFarland, Conservation Program Manager for the Sierra Club New Jersey Chapter, for an insightful presentation on the chapter’s statewide "Back to Grass" campaign. This campaign addresses the rapid expansion of artificial turf across New Jersey, advocating for a return to safe, natural grass playing fields.

Taylor will discuss the environmental and health risks associated with synthetic surfaces, including:

• Toxic Chemicals: The presence of PFAS ("forever chemicals") and microplastics that can leach into local groundwater.

• Extreme Heat: How artificial fields can reach temperatures exceeding to  on warm days, posing safety risks to athletes.

• Waste Issues: The challenges of disposing of 500,000 pounds of plastic once a field reaches its 8-to-10-year lifespan.

• And more. 

The session will also cover legislative efforts such as Bill S3254, which aims to prohibit the use of State Green Acres funding for artificial turf development, and how residents can promote sustainable recreation in their own communities.

Signup Instructions: RSVP