PFAS Leaching From Artificial Turf In School Athletic Fields

Water Contamination Lawsuit News

New research is raising concerns that PFAS chemicals used in artificial turf may leach into runoff and surrounding soil at school athletic fields

Thursday, December 11, 2025 - Artificial turf has become a popular choice for school athletic fields because it stays green year round, requires little water, and can handle heavy use. But many parents and school communities are now learning that these surfaces may contain PFAS compounds used in backing materials, binding agents, and infill. As rainwater flows over the field or drains through the turf layers, small amounts of PFAS can leach into soil, storm drains, and nearby creeks. This discovery has caused families to ask whether long term exposure might increase the potential for future PFAS cancer lawsuit actions or lead some to contact a PFAS cancer from drinking water attorney if local wells or groundwater later test positive. While most people think of turf as just plastic grass, the manufacturing process often involves fluorinated chemicals meant to resist weathering and heat. Those same chemicals are incredibly persistent once they reach the environment. As schools replace natural grass with synthetic fields, concerns are emerging about what happens to the runoff after a heavy rain or during routine field washing. Many districts never considered that a surface designed for safety, durability, and lower maintenance could also introduce long lived contaminants into the surrounding ecosystem.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, PFAS compounds do not break down naturally in soil or water and can travel significant distances once released into the environment. Recent studies that sampled drainage water from synthetic athletic fields found measurable PFAS levels in both surface runoff and groundwater immediately downgradient of the installations. These findings have encouraged environmental agencies to take a closer look at where artificial turf is used, how fields are maintained, and whether the materials shed more PFAS as they age. The EPA notes that PFAS can accumulate in sediment and gradually migrate into drinking water sources, especially in communities that rely on shallow aquifers or streams connected to school drainage systems. Runoff from turf fields often flows into stormwater networks that bypass wastewater treatment entirely, meaning PFAS can move directly from school property into wetlands, ponds, or irrigation canals without any filtration. Researchers studying synthetic turf have also identified PFAS in the rubber infill pellets that help cushion athletes' falls. When these pellets break down from UV light and foot traffic, smaller particles wash away more easily, acting as another pathway for PFAS to reach the environment. Schools that dispose of old turf rolls during field replacement may also release PFAS if the materials are stored outdoors where rainwater can pass through them.

As awareness grows, many school districts are starting to evaluate whether artificial turf remains the best long term option. Some are considering PFAS free turf systems now entering the market, although these alternatives often carry higher upfront costs. Others are revisiting natural grass fields, focusing on improved drainage, drought tolerant blends, and low maintenance mowing practices that reduce the need for heavy watering. Environmental engineers are suggesting that schools install runoff controls, such as vegetated swales or gravel trenches, to help capture PFAS laden water before it reaches streams or groundwater recharge zones.

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