Simple measures can significantly reduce the environmental impact of artificial turf pitches. With the right precautions, the spread of microplastics from artificial turf fields can be minimised to well below the levels assumed by the European Commission when proposing its future EU ban on rubber infill. This is the key finding from the Danish test and development project Silkeborgbanen, conducted by Silkeborg Municipality and the Danish Football Association (DBU), in collaboration with leading experts.
As of 17 October 2031, the EU will ban the installation of new artificial turf pitches using rubber granulate as infill, although existing pitches may continue to be used. The decision was based on the assumption that each pitch releases around 500kg of microplastics annually. However, recent findings from the Silkeborgbanen project indicate that this figure can be reduced to less than 10kg per year – less than 2% of the projected loss.
Silkeborg Municipality – Denmark’s self-proclaimed Outdoor Capital – has trialled various turf systems. However, local football clubs favour rubber-infill pitches for their close resemblance to natural grass in playing quality and cost-effectiveness. In 2021, the municipality launched Silkeborgbanen with DBU to create environmentally responsible artificial turf systems without compromising on playability or cost.
- Our clubs need year-round playable pitches, even in rain or sub-zero temperatures. Rubber-infill artificial turf is the best, most affordable option. At Søholt, we believed we had found the right model – and now we have documentation to prove it, says Johan Brødsgaard, First Deputy Mayor and Chair of the Culture, Leisure, Outdoor and Sports Committee.
Less than 10 kg of microplastics dispersed per year
The pitch at Silkeborgbanen was constructed following the European CEN guidelines (DS/CEN/TR 17519) and informed by previous studies. The Danish Technological Institute (DTI) monitored the field over two years, finding that with the right design, maintenance, and snow removal protocols, annual microplastic dispersal can be kept below 10kg – over 50 times lower than the EU’s benchmark.
- Most granulate carried off by players stays out of nature – it most likely ends up in waste bins after changing rooms or homes are cleaned, explains DTI Senior Specialist Bjørn Malmgren-Hansen.
Cleaning equipment minimises loss of infill
DTI’s tests confirm that human activity, particularly during maintenance, poses the greatest risk of granulate loss. However, this too can be effectively controlled.
- Our grounds staff clean equipment on the pitch after maintenance, keeping microplastic dispersal negligible. Snow is more challenging, but we’ve adjusted our removal protocols accordingly, Johan Brødsgaard adds.
No pollution of the aquatic environment
One of the EU Commission’s main concerns was the risk of microplastics entering the aquatic environment. To address this, drainage water from Silkeborgbanen has been regularly tested by consulting firm Sweco. The results show no trace of microplastics, micro-rubber, or significant contaminants. PFAS levels were below Danish thresholds for fresh water and at or below drinking water standards.
Testing at Silkeborgbanen continues
Silkeborg Municipality will continue the test project to further explore how artificial turf can be used sustainably. Summary results and the full report from Danish Technological Institute are available at www.silkeborgbanen.eu.
Key Recommendations to Limit Microplastic Dispersal from the Danish Technological Institute’s report:
- Containment barriers work - A height of 50cm is recommended within EN Guidance.
- Install a clean-down exit area - A grated exit zone for players helps collect infill before it leaves the facility.
- Clean all maintenance equipment – Maintenance equipment must be cleaned before leaving the pitch. A dedicated exit area with grates for maintenance vehicles should be in place.
- Follow a structured maintenance plan - Infill that migrates to the pitch edge should be redistributed to high-use areas.
Facts
- Denmark has over 400 artificial turf pitches, serving 380,000 footballers.
- Most modern pitches include containment measures.
- Many pitches use recycled rubber from end-of-life tires that has been treated and processed into clean, recycled rubber.
- Most modern pitches use an "e-layer" of rubber granulate mixed with polyurethane for shock absorption.
- Artificial turf is durable, weather-resistant, and supports flexible year-round play.
- Silkeborgbanen complies with EU guidelines and covers 9,442 m², using 66 tonnes of rubber infill.
- The EU ban on rubber granulate sales takes effect in October 2031, though existing fields may remain in use.
Project Management
Silkeborgbanen is a joint initiative by Silkeborg Municipality and DBU. In 2021, the Danish Technological Institute was selected via public tender to lead testing and analysis. The project received guidance from:
Anders Helledi, Sports & Leisure Consultant, Silkeborg Municipality
Anders Kjær, Senior Consultant for Innovation & Sustainability, Danish Football Association
Carsten Sigvert, Market / Project Manager, Sport & Leisure, WSP Danmark A/S
For further information, please contact
Reinholdt Schultz, Silkeborgbanen, rs@mannov.dk, Tel.: +45 26 72 80 72
Anders Helledi, Silkeborg Municipality, anh@silkeborg.dk, Tel.: +45 20 37 22 85
Bjørn Malmgren-Hansen, Danish Technological Institute, bmh@teknologisk.dk, Tel.: +45 72 20 18 10