Dynamic material flow analysis of microplastics lost from artificial turfs: A case study from Norway

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Material Flow Analysis
• Microplastic Pollution

Background:

• Microplastics pose a significant environmental threat, with substantial annual losses.
• European Union regulations are restricting intentionally added microplastics, including those in artificial turf.
• Understanding microplastic release from artificial turf is crucial for effective environmental management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate and quantify the loss of styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) granules from artificial turf used for soccer in Norway.
• To develop a material flow model for system understanding and parameter identification.
• To create scenarios for future regulatory assessments.

Main Methods:

• Development of a material flow model to quantify microplastic flows and stocks.
• Application of Monte Carlo simulation for uncertainty estimation.
• Utilisation of data reconciliation for improved system balance.

Main Results:

• Annual loss of 1187 tons (900 kg/field) of SBR granules from Norwegian artificial turf.
• Loss increases annually due to turf maintenance and design.
• Scenarios demonstrate the critical need for implementing mitigation measures.

Conclusions:

• Artificial turf contributes significantly to microplastic pollution, necessitating regulatory action.
• The developed model provides a framework for assessing microplastic release globally.
• Implementing targeted measures is essential to reduce SBR granule loss to the environment.