WHAT‘S FACT, WHAT’S NOT
At TenCate, we believe in creating healthier, greener, and more beautiful spaces where people live, play, and connect.
As a manufacturer, we know we carry a responsibility — not just to deliver high-performance turf solutions, but to do so in a way that respects our planet. We’re pushing forward with a strategy rooted in product innovation and operational optimization, because sustainability isn’t a checkbox — it’s a commitment.
And yes, as the global leader in sustainable artificial turf, we also know our industry is under the microscope. From concerns about toxicity to questions about safety and recyclability — we’ve heard it all.
But the truth is: Many of these concerns are based on misconceptions, outdated data, or misinformation.
We totally understand where the questions come from — and we think it’s time to bring some clarity.
That’s why we’re addressing some of the most common myths about turf — and sharing what the facts and science really say.
Myth: turf is made from dangerous chemicals
Fact: turf is made from the same materials we use in everyday life, safely. Here’s what turf is made of :
- Polypropylene: Used in items like face masks, yoga pants, yogurt containers, children’s toys and food packaging.
- Polyethylene: Commonly used in water bottles and everyday packaging
- Polyester: Frequently used in food packaging, medical equipment, jerseys and athletic wear.
- Polyurethane: Used in footwear to replace leather, creating lightweight sports shoes, safety shoes, and recycled soles.
Myth: turf is made from dangerous chemicals
Fact: Our turf meets some of the strictest safety standards in the world.
It complies with California Prop 65 and international toy safety standards, including EN71-3 and ASTM F963 — the same standards used to ensure the safety of children’s toys.
That means: no lead, no heavy metals, and no toxic substances.
If it’s safe enough for toddlers to play with, it’s safe enough for your field, school, or backyard.
Myth: artificial turf contains PFAS
Fact: TenCate Turf is manufactured without PFAS
We are committed to providing safe and sustainable products. As of October 2023, we completely removed PFAS from our manufacturing process.
Did you know that the PFAS levels found in older generations of turf were actually far lower than what you’d find in common everyday products — like toothpaste, shampoo, beauty products, and even some medications?
Myth: runoff from turf is polluting our water
Fact: grass field maintenance is more harmful to local water systems than turf.
Synthetic turf does not require pesticides and fertilizers that can harm soil health. Harmful chemicals can leach into local watersheds, negatively impacting potable water sources or aquarian ecosystems.
Myth: turf is more difficult to clean
Fact: Turf can be cleaned with the same dish washing detergent used at home
Turf needs no special treatments or harsh chemicals to stay clean. In fact, regular maintenance can be as easy as rinsing with water. For deeper cleaning, you can use the same dishwashing detergent you already have at home — no need for anything toxic or industrial.
Myth: more injuries occur on turf than natural grass
Fact: There is no statistical difference between injury occurrence on turf and well-maintained grass.
- Extensive research by the NFL, NCAA1 and academic institutions have found no difference in overall injury rates.
- Challenges with early turf – like increased injury rates, turf toe and player discomfort have been addressed through continuous advancements in turf research and innovation.
- A 2024 study has shown that the incidence of concussions on artificial turf are lower and less severe than on natural grass
Myth: turf is impermeable and does not drain
Fact: most turf systems are designed to drain 10-20 inches of rain per hour.
Most turf fields are engineered to drain 10–20 inches of rain per hour — far more than even the heaviest storms. For context, even the most severe hurricanes typically drop just 2–3 inches per hour. Turf systems are built with highly permeable layers and a base designed to store and manage water, reducing the risk of surface flooding.
Drainage performance is verified using ASTM F2898, the industry standard test for turf permeability.
Myth: turf is not recyclable
Fact: Turf is recyclable — and it’s already happening at scale
TenCate pioneered turf recycling in the Netherlands back in 2018, where over 95% of turf fields are being recycled. That includes the turf, infill, and shock pads — more than 90% of the total system.
In the U.S., we’ve built a dedicated turf recycling facility in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and we’ve already recycled over 60 full fields from Massachusetts to California — with more capacity coming online every day.
