Is the grass greener on the other side?

In an era dominated by concerns over climate change and environmental impact, our everyday choices hold greater significance than ever before. Continuing our ‘carbon cost’ series, we asked our audience what they wanted to know the carbon footprint of next, and you answered: lawns!

Even seemingly minor decisions, such as selecting turf for our lawns, sports fields, and recreational spaces, can have far-reaching consequences.

Decisions about turf selection are more significant than they might initially appear, because they extend beyond residential development to impact urban planning and corporate developments on a global scale. These decisions have various implications on environmental sustainability, water conservation, climate resilience, biodiversity, and community well-being making them important not only for individual homeowners but also for entire communities, cities, and corporate entities worldwide.

The age-old debate between natural grass and artificial turf has gained new urgency as we seek sustainable alternatives in every aspect of our lives.

The Carbon Footprint of Production

The journey of grass and astroturf begins with their production processes, which lay the foundation for their respective carbon footprints. Natural grass emerges victorious, as its production entails traditional methods such as land preparation, soil treatment, and seeding. While not entirely devoid of carbon emissions, these practices are significantly less energy-intensive compared to the production of artificial turf.

Producing astroturf involves raw material extraction, energy-intensive manufacturing, and transportation, contributing to a notable carbon footprint. The production of synthetic fibres like polyethylene emits approximately one ounce of carbon dioxide for each ounce of polyethylene (PET) produced. The extraction and manufacture of these materials also contributes to soil, air, and water pollution.

Maintenance Matters

Beyond initial production, the ongoing maintenance of both natural grass and artificial turf plays a pivotal role in their carbon costs. Maintaining lawns requires regular watering, mowing, and maintenance. Water is a precious resource, and traditional lawns consume considerable amounts, leading to concerns over water scarcity. Mowing also has an energy cost. Gas-powered mowers, in particular, have a significant footprint; they emit 16 times the CO2 emissions per acre compared to electric mowers. Chemical fertilizers and pesticides are used to maintain the aesthetics and vitality of lawns. Manufacturing these products requires energy-consuming processes and extraction of limited natural resources, thus adding to the carbon footprint.

Despite having a longer life span, the maintenance of astroturf involves periodic cleaning, which often demands machinery and the use of toxic chemicals, both of which contribute significantly to carbon emissions. Chemical fertilisers and pesticides are used to maintain the aesthetics and vitality of lawns. However, there are sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives available. These approaches may include using organic fertilisers, employing natural pest control methods, and embracing more sustainable lawn care practices that promote both aesthetics and environmental responsibility.

Water, Waste, and Lifecycle Considerations

Water scarcity is a growing concern in many regions, amplifying the importance of water-efficient choices. Natural grass typically requires more water for irrigation, which can have environmental implications in water-stressed areas. Artificial turf is often promoted as a water-saving alternative to natural grass, especially in areas facing water shortages, since it doesn’t require irrigation.

On the other hand, disposing of worn-out astroturf raises unique challenges. Over time, astroturf deteriorates and requires replacement, further contributing to waste disposal and carbon emission through the disposal process. Due to its composition, artificial grass is not easily recyclable, resulting in its accumulation in landfills.

Environmental considerations

Carbon Sequestration

Natural grass, as a living plant, absorbs carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere. This process allows grass to act as a carbon sink, helping to mitigate the effects of greenhouse gas emissions. As natural grass grows, it stores carbon within its biomass and soil. This carbon sequestration ability can enable well-maintained grassy areas to contribute to local carbon balance.

Artificial turf has a significantly different impact on the environment. One notable concern is the ‘heat island effect.’ Synthetic surfaces like artificial turf tend to absorb and retain heat, raising local temperatures in urban areas.

Flood management

Natural grass has unique qualities that make it effective at managing surface water runoff and promoting water absorption into the soil. When it rains, natural grass can absorb a significant amount of water, reducing the amount of runoff that contributes to erosion and flooding.

Alternatively, due to the compact surface and lack of natural root structure of artificial grass, rainwater tends to run off the surface more quickly. This can lead to localise flooding, erosion, and an increased burden on stormwater management systems.

Biodiversity

Grass lawns are facing growing scrutiny due to their limited biodiversity support and the substantial inputs needed for maintenance. Regular mowing, a common practice in lawn care, eradicates habitats and significantly diminishes biodiversity. Shifting to less frequent or less intensive mowing not only reduces maintenance efforts but also creates space for bees, butterflies, and other wildlife. This approach can contribute to a more ecologically diverse and sustainable outdoor space. On the other hand, astroturf eradicates natural habitat for insects and birds. The absence of these essential elements within the urban environment disrupts the diversity of the local ecosystems.

The winning solution?

As we strive for greener, low-carbon spaces, making an informed choice requires a holistic assessment that extends far beyond the surface. By critically evaluating the carbon cost of each option, we pave the way for landscapes that harmonise with nature and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Natural grass lawns and artificial turf each come with their own set of environmental trade-offs. Both can be sustainably managed, to a degree, by taking into account environmental factors and adopting eco-friendly practices.

Transitioning from mowing to mulching enhances soil nutrition, water conservation, and maintains a tidy appearance. Mulching, a landscaping technique involving the application of organic materials like grass clippings or wood chips on the soil’s surface, serves to retain moisture, stabilise soil temperature, suppress weeds, conserve water and enhance soil quality.

Opting for wildflower meadows instead of manicured lawns reduces maintenance, conserves water, and supports local biodiversity, especially in the UK, where wildlife populations have declined by 41% since the 1970s. Other alternatives could include introducing ponds which attract wildlife and promote natural balance in the ecosystem.

The shift toward such eco-friendly alternatives in landscaping is not only a testament to environmental consciousness but also a practical step in mitigating the effects of habitat loss and climate change.

So, even when it comes to lawns, a well-informed choice can contribute to more environmentally responsible and balanced outdoor spaces which align with a greener, low-carbon future.

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