The Environmental Impacts of Plastic Grass

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There's been no scientific research that's really looked at the impact you might have on the microbes or the fungi. The placing of the soil itself with sand and gravel will, of course, have an impact on the habitat suitability. Some companies are aware of this and they are trying to work with scientists to try to find the best way forward for continued use of their product. If we did away with the idea of needing to have a nice neat patch of grass, people might not be so inclined to go for the plastic version.

Installing artificial grass is becoming an increasingly popular way to achieve a neat, green lawn without much effort. But with environmental and potential health costs associated with plastic turf many campaigners and gardeners would like to see it banned. Madeleine Finlay speaks to Guardian feature writer Sam Wollaston and urban ecologist Prof Rob Francis about why people go for artificial grass, its environmental impact, and whether it’s time we rid ourselves of the idea of the perfect lawn altogether. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/sciencepod