Turf Talk: Are Artificial Fields Toxic?

Two experts on synthetic turf will explain the pros and cons of grass replacements at a free program at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, May 18, in the Lane Room at the Burlingame Public Library. Presented by the Citizens Environmental Council of Burlingame, the program also will feature a short ESPN documentary called “The Turf War” and a report from a state senator’s aide on the issue.

The use of crumb rubber for school playing fields has generated debate in manycommunities on the Peninsula. At the program, called “Turk Talk: Are Artificial Fields Toxic?”, Lou Duran, public works supervisor at the City of San Carlos, will explain why his city decided to switch from crumb rubber to corkonut, which is made from coconut shell fiber and cork.

David DiGeronimo, product manager of Astroturf, will discuss the costs and benefits of synthetic fields and will provide a hands-on sampling of alternative infill materials. DiGeronimo has been involved in the development of artificial fields for over 15 years.

Alexander Wong, legislative assistant for State Senator Jerry Hill, will explain the senator's attempts to regulate crumb rubber.

The ESPN documentary describes growing concern about a suspected link between crumb rubber and cancer.

Crumb rubber was initially created as a beneficial way to recycle the more than 300 million tires discarded in the U.S. annually. Now some people are questioning its safety. Past federal studies have been inconclusive and the use of crumb rubber continues. In February, the federal government announced an action plan to answer questions raised about crumb rubber. The California State Senate has rejected attempts by State Senator Jerry Hill to introduce legislation to suspend use of crumb rubber this year and last year.

In the City of Burlingame, all public parks have natural grass, and a majority of school fields have synthetic turf using crumb rubber. Grass provides benefits of cooler temperatures and natural materials, but uses lots of water and fertilizer and cannot be used heavily during the rainy season. Technological advances have made some non-rubber infill materials available for those who choose to go the synthetic turf route. School officials and representatives of the Synthetic Turf Council have been invited to share their perspectives at the program.

“Turf Talk” will take place from 7 to 8:45 p.m. in the Lane Room at the Burlingame Public Library, 480 Primrose Road. This program is free and open to the public. Door prizes will be given out, including extras for those who don’t drive alone to this event. One lucky attendee will win two Premier Midfield tickets valued at $190 to the San Jose Earthquakes vs. L.A. Galaxy California Clásico match on Saturday, June 25.

The Citizens Environmental Council of Burlingame (CEC) is a nonprofit organization that provides tools to help Burlingame residents live more sustainably. You can download a flyer with details of other CEC programs here: http://bit.ly/1Kpa4gg. For more information about CEC, visit www.cecburlingame.org or email info@burlingamecec.org.