Is polyethylene fiber bad for the environment when used to make an articificial turf field?

Question

is polyethylene fiber bad for the environment when used to make an articificial turf field?

my town is thinking of installing one and i wanted to know if anyone knows of anything thats wrong with polyethylene fiber?

Answer 1

a real grass field comes with its own share of environmental issues.  it typically requires fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, etc., to keep it looking good.  these products often utilize petroleum products in their production.  also, depending on the climate, the field may require lots of water to keep it green.  you have to cut the grass frequently which requires the use of a mower.

i would guess that the artificial turf causes less environmental impact over the long term.  

Answer 2

Well, it is made of oil, so it is in that sense.

Also, the alternative of natural grass would help to absorb CO2 from the atmosphere and make more oxygen.

When it comes to sports, most athletes prefer natural turf over that fake stuff. I had also heard that some of the astro-turfs had the potential to cause cancer, but I wouldn't bank too heavily on that.