What is Artificial Grass?
Artificial grass is a surface of synthetic fibers made to look like natural grass. It is a modern low maintenance solution for any outdoor space.
It is commonly used in arenas for sports that were originally intended or are normally played on grass like football. However, it is now become popular among home owners and businesses and is being used on residential lawns and commercial applications. The main reason for artificial grasses popularity is due to its low maintenance benefits. Artificial grass stands up to heavy use, such as in sports, and requires no irrigation or regular trimming.
Artificial grass first gained major attention in the 1960s, when it was used in the newly constructed Astrodome. The specific product used is called AstroTurf. The first generation of artificial grass from the 1960s have been largely replaced by the second generation and third generation of artificial grass.
Second generation synthetic grass products feature longer fibers and sand infills, and third generation products which are most widely used today, offer infills that are mixtures of sand and granules of recycled rubber – making them eco friendly with their use of recycled rubber.
Artificial Grass and the Environment
Throughout recent years, artificial grass has fast become an alternative to natural grass. Not only does artificial grass stay green all year long and require low maintenance, it also aids in multiple aspects of environmental conservation.
Pesticides
Pesticides may rid your plants and grass of unwanted bugs and weeds but pesticide chemicals have proven harmful side-effects that not only hide in your lawn but eventually seep into your local water streams. According to the Cancer Research UK, studies suggest pesticides could be linked to cancers such as leukemia, brain tumors, breast and prostate cancer.
Carbon Emissions
Petrol based gardening tools like chainsaws and lawnmowers add to the UK’s current pollution and climate problem. A artificial lawn requires minimal upkeep by petrol based gardening tools and eliminate the need for these items all together.
Artificial grass not only benefits the end user, it has multiple environmental advantages. By eliminating water and chemical waste as well as reducing carbon emissions, artificial grass can be the solution to many on-going environmental problems.
Water Conservation
Within the past few years, many countries across the world like America suffer from extreme drought and water rationing is unfortunately becoming common practice. According to the American Water Authorities, one square foot of synthetic grass can save up to 55 gallons of water in one year. Although not relevant to the UK it is easy to see why Artificial grass is a great solution to many environmental factors.
