Using Artificial Grass in Parks
While natural grass is one of the most common presentations in parks, playgrounds, and recreation areas, it doesn't mean artificial grass has no benefits in these settings. Artificial grass is more than just the fake turf on ballfields. There are many reasons why many public areas, park grounds, and school campuses have decided to use artificial grass instead of the real thing!
Here are the top benefits of artificial grass in parks:
The Environment
Artificial grass has the ability to reduce gas emissions that result from lawn mower pollution, which can fill the air with carbon dioxide that contributes to global warming.
Water Conservation
Aesthetic appeal is not the only benefit of installing artificial grass in parks and recreation areas; it also conserves water! Since most areas with natural grass are irrigated, artificial turf saves up to 38% of water!
Maintenance Time and Costs
Maintaining grass was never an easy task; it takes lots of time and money to keep a lawn looking green year-round. Since maintaining natural grass requires constant watering, fertilizing, weed control, mowing, edging, and dethatching, getting rid of all the maintenance necessary for natural grass can save an enormous amount of time and money.
Comfort
Natural grass is usually hard on the feet; whether it's walking across it or any children playing on it, there are always problems to fix or injuries to treat. Since artificial grass is made of soft fibers, it provides a level of comfort for people to enjoy.
Safety
With natural grass comes all kinds of hazards; since artificial turf eliminates the risk of mud, weeds, and insects, undesirable accidents are less likely to happen. The non-absorbent material won't cause any harm if someone falls or sits on it, so there are no worries about slips or falls.
Resilience to Extreme Temperatures
The fibers of artificial grass are not affected by extreme temperatures; whether it's hot or cold, the material won't melt or crack, unlike natural grass that withers away in the summer heat and browns during the winter.
UV Resistance
Natural grass has a quick turnover rate; lots of sunlight and heat contribute to its fast deterioration and an overall unattractive appearance, requiring regular maintenance and replacement. Artificial turf is resistant to the ultraviolet rays that cause discoloration and damage, which results in an even wear pattern that doesn't need any link of frequent replacement.
Spotless Appearance
Natural grass is exposed to all kinds of dirt and grime; whether it's playing on the lawn or sitting on the benches, natural grass picks up unwanted dirt easily. Since artificial turf doesn't collect dirt as natural grass does, spots are never an issue!
Ultraviolet Protection
Since most areas with natural grass are lined with trees, bushes, or buildings that block out the sun's rays, it doesn't receive enough sunlight to keep it healthy. Installing artificial turf in parks can provide a suitable space for children and pets to play under the sun without burning their skin!
Allergies
Cleaning up all the harmful allergens found in natural grass can be quite a task; mowing, weed control, and leaf blowers contribute to spreading pollen that makes people sick. Since artificial turf is resistant to allergens, it can help reduce asthma attacks caused by allergies while still offering a green space for everyone to enjoy.
Drawbacks of Using Artificial Grass in Parks
Although the list of benefits may seem endless, natural grass does have some advantages that artificial turf can't replace.
Cost
Artificial turf is more expensive than natural grass to install and maintain, so it might not be a feasible option in all parks and recreational areas. Some cities don't see the benefits of using fake grass over real grass, so they choose to remain traditional.
Maintenance
While artificial turf is much easier to maintain than natural grass, it does require regular cleaning and replacement every once in a while, which can be very costly.
Sustainability vs. Savings
Though the long-term benefits of using artificial grass over natural grass do provide a good return on investment, the initial cost of installing artificial turf in parks can be prohibitive. It may not offer a good return on investment.
Environmental Concerns
Both natural and artificial grass requires water to keep it green and clean, so some cities prefer running hoses for traditional grass rather than wasting money on the installation and upkeep of fake grass.
Disposal
Once artificial turf is no longer usable, it cannot be repurposed and must be discarded to the landfill. Some cities prefer natural grass that can be recycled and reused for other purposes.
While natural grass does have its advantages, it doesn't beat the health and safety benefits of using artificial turf in parks and recreational areas. The list may be endless but can provide a strong argument for cities looking to make their parks safer and more convenient. If you're interested in artificial grass for your home or business, be sure to research options available in your area.