Tyres contain several substances with hazardous properties. Some of these, for example polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), phthalates and certain metals could cause cancer, disturb reproduction or adversely affect genetic material.

In accordance with the Swedish environmental quality objective A Non-Toxic Environment (interim target 3), such substances shall as far as possible not appear in newly manufactured products.

Rubber granules from recycled tyres are, for example, used as filling material in synthetic football pitches. The substances with hazardous properties could be released from the granules and cause exposure of human beings and the environment.

Norwegian surveys have demonstrated that rubber granules from recycled tyres in synthetic pitches may have a local, environmental impact.  Zinc and phenols can leach from the rubber granules and reach water courses where they could affect organisms. When it comes to health risks, uncertainties are larger. The question is whether the health-hazardous substances could affect players and others standing on the pitches.

In order to avoid exposure of humans and the environment to hazardous substances in synthetic turf, KemI is recommending that rubber granules from recycled  tyres are not to be used as filling material when new football courts or playgrounds are laid.

Use of recycled tyres has decreased 

Before KemI in 2006 issued PM 3/06: Synthetic turf from a chemical perspective, which communicated the above recommendation, 91% of the laid football pitches contained granules from recycled tyres. Only 40% of the football pitches laid in 2007 contained granules from recycled tyres. Instead, other types of rubber granules were used, as well as plastic balls and sand.

The development towards better alternatives will hopefully continue and new synthetic turfs become improved, from the viewpoint of playing technique as well as without risks to the health of human beings and the environment.

It is the responsibility of companies to ensure that the artificial turfs they sale are safe for humans and the environment. KemI urges anyone intending to lay a synthetic turf to request information on the chemical content and to make demands in the procurement process in order to avoid particularly hazardous substances.

PM 3/06 Synthetic turf from a chemical perspective (PDF, 324 kB].