Synthetic grass may look uniform and be seemingly maintenance-free, but environmental and health concerns are prompting many Californians to rip out their artificial lawns.
State officials are concerned about health risks created by the chemicals released by these lawns, perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, also known as PFAS or forever chemicals.
“Because of its potential toxicity, fake grass requires careful handling and disposal to minimize any immediate and long-term environmental impact,” cautioned Danielle Scardino, lawn expert at West Coast Turf and part of the Harmony Brands network of growers who have developed better solutions to replace artificial plastic products.
“California homeowners are returning to real organic solutions,” she said. “Natural grass has many ecological benefits, including erosion control, water filtration and air purification. The improved real California lawn is achievable with one of the newer varieties of grasses that have more sustainable, drought-resistant qualities.”
Safe Removal of Artificial Grass
Scardino outlines the DIY process for safely removing potentially toxic artificial turf:
Grab safety goggles, a pair of gloves and a dust mask. “Wearing protective gear will help guard against exposure to potentially toxic chemicals released during the removal process.”
Use a utility knife or carpet cutter to section the grass into strips. “This will make it easier to manage and minimize the release of microplastics and other hazardous compounds.”
Carefully remove any nails, pegs or glue holding the turf in place. “For glued surfaces, use a low-toxicity solvent or adhesive remover to release the turf without damaging the underlying surface. Look for products that carry the Environmental Protection Agency’s Safer Choice logo or visit EPA.Gov/SaferChoice for a safer chemical ingredients list.”
Roll the strips tightly and clean remaining debris. “Secure each roll with tape or rope. This will help contain potentially harmful chemical particles within the rolls. Then use an outdoor vacuum to collect any potentially harmful materials. Carefully empty the vacuum into a sealable bag or container and dispose of it along with the artificial grass rolls.”
Research local disposal regulations. “Due to artificial turf’s potential toxicity, some California cities and municipalities have strict disposal guidelines. Visit California’s Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) website at dtsc.ca.gov for local disposal instructions, or call DTSC headquarters at (916) 551-1313.”
Test the soil. “It’s recommended to replace artificial turf with natural, sustainable California grass and plants. Testing will help guide any remediation decisions to ensure the soil is safe for planting.”
Choose a safer, environmentally responsible replacement. “Choose a grass variety and plants that require less maintenance and are safer for the local ecosystem. Savvy Californians are learning that certain varieties of Bermuda grass are the way to go for a real California lawn.” The newer Bermuda varieties have a lot of environmental benefits. These varieties are developed purposefully for changing climate and environmental concerns. They use less water than older varieties, stay greener longer and green up sooner. Even if a lawn gets a dead spot from the weather or dogs, it will grow back and cover itself, and Bermuda grass can be installed at just about any time of year.