Public parks and recreational spaces are important for communities.

These places allow people to come together and enjoy physical activities or enjoy a picnic with the grandkids.

However, a bustling sports ground recently went through a massive change. Why so?


Sydney's Moore Park Synthetic Field has undergone a significant transformation.

The park, once famous as a sporting turf, discreetly replaced its synthetic grass with cork-like material.

Many park regulars have since then wondered about the sudden change.


The answer lies in a growing body of evidence suggesting that certain types of artificial turf could pose serious health risks.

The original synthetic pitch at Moore Park was made with a rubber-crumb infill—a material increasingly scrutinised worldwide.

The infill consists of tiny pellets from recycled tyres, and concerns have been raised about its potential carcinogenic properties.


Several countries have already started phasing out rubber-crumb turfs.

The European Union already prohibited rubber-crumb infill for sports pitches by 2031, citing environmental concerns.

The Netherlands went ahead by a year, as they had already imposed a ban on such pitches by 2030.

In Australia, the NSW Government shelled out $1.52 million for the resurfacing of Moore Park's field.

This move came after a report released last year by the government's chief scientist.

The report highlighted the 'significant knowledge gaps' regarding the impact of rubber-based grounds.

While the report did not lead to an outright ban, it certainly fuelled prompt action from officials.


Australian Microplastic Assessment Project's Program Director, Dr Michelle Blewitt, has already voiced her concerns about the environmental implications of rubber-crumb turf.

'We are aware that chemicals associated with the crumb are toxic and potentially harmful to aquatic life and us,' Dr Blewitt stated.

'We are urging the government to follow stringent regulations in line with overseas developments.'

With over 200 rubber-crumb fields across NSW, researchers hoped that the refurbishment of Moore Park could jumpstart a transition away from these materials.

However, with plans for more artificial fields in the pipeline—including a $10 million redevelopment in Hobartville and an $8 million project in Callan Park—it showed a pressing need for the NSW Government to avoid using rubber-crumb infill in parks.

Advocates also urged for a five-year moratorium on new planning and approvals for synthetic grass fields.

Along with the moratorium was the need for a 'continued research program' to fully understand the health and environmental risks associated with these fields.


In a separate statement, Greater Sydney Parklands explained that the Moore Park pitch had 'reached its lifespan' after nine years.

'The resurfacing has adopted modern standards and materials with an organic infill material being used to replace the old crumb rubber,' a Greater Sydney Parklands supervisor shared.

The Centennial Parklands website also noted the need for replacement due to 'the current state of the field, expected lifespan, risk reduction measures, market options, and the implications of the NSW Chief Scientist & Engineer Report'.

Moore Park's recent changes should be a reminder to stay informed and proactive about the potential risks in our environment.

It's a call to advocate for safer play areas and to hold local councils accountable for everyone's health and well-being.
What are your thoughts on the use of synthetic turf in sports fields? Have you noticed similar changes in your local park? Share your experiences and opinions with us in the comments below!