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Coastal Councils Managing Waste Generation from Synthetic Turf
Synthetic Turf Field Rapid Appraisal Toolbox and Workbook
In recent years, synthetic turf blades and infill material from synthetic sporting fields have been found in local waterways and beaches. Research into the impacts of microplastics on the environment and human health is still underway, and a lot remains unknown.
About the Project
Ku-ring-gai Council, Sydney Coastal Councils Group and Australian Microplastic Assessment Project (AUSMAP) have been successful in obtaining a NSW EPA grant under Round Three of the Local Government Waste Solutions Fund.
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The project, entitled Coastal Councils Managing Waste Generation from Synthetic Turf, commenced in April 2025 and aims to reduce microplastic contamination from synthetic turf fields, which are increasingly common across NSW to meet growing demand for sporting infrastructure.
Over a two-year period, the study will:
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Evaluate conditions of synthetic turf fields
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Identify potential sources of microplastic loss
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Develop, implement and assess mitigation measures
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Conduct education campaigns with stakeholders
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Promote best-practice approaches to synthetic turf management
Through this initiative, the project team is collaborating closely with coastal councils across the Sydney region and the NSW EPA to explore innovative strategies for waste reduction and resource recovery, supporting the transition toward a circular economy.
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Project Overview
Phase 1: Rapid appraisal
STATUS: Complete
Phase 2: Case studies
STATUS: In Progress
Microplastic loss before and after implementation of mitigation measures on selected fields from Phase 1 will be evaluated. Mitigation measures may include pit baskets, filtration devices, shoe brush off zones, walk over grates and an education and awareness campaign.
Phase 3: Promotion
STATUS: To Be Completed
Synthetic turf fields and results from Phase 2 will be showcased to visiting councils as a demonstration of best practice synthetic turf field management and microplastic waste generation mitigation.
Phase 1: Rapid Appraisal Toolbox and Workbook
The Synthetic Turf Field Rapid Appraisal Toolbox and accompanying Workbook have been developed to support councils in assessing the potential for microplastic loss from synthetic sports fields in a consistent and practical way.
These FREE resources are designed for council staff, contractors, and asset managers to:
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Identify where and how synthetic turf blades and any infill materials may be escaping into surrounding environments
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Assess the condition, design, and maintenance of synthetic turf fields in relation to microplastic generation and containment
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Compare fields across a local government area using a standardised approach
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Identify priority sites where mitigation or further investigation may be required​
The rapid appraisal does not require specialist equipment or laboratory analysis. Instead, it uses visual assessments, site observations, and simple field-based checks to provide an initial indication of environmental risk. Results from the appraisal can help inform operational decisions, maintenance practices, upgrades, and future procurement of synthetic turf infrastructure.
By completing the rapid appraisal, councils play a critical role in understanding and reducing microplastic pollution from synthetic turf fields, while contributing to statewide efforts aligned with circular economy and waste reduction goals.
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Download the complete Synthetic Turf Field Rapid Appraisal Toolbox and Workbook for FREE below:
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Proudly Funded By
This project is an initiative of the NSW Environment Protection Authority under the NSW Government’s Waste and Sustainable Materials Strategy, and is funded from the waste levy.
Project Partners
