Council discusses health risks of artificial turf in Golden Gardens plan review

The Sustainability Commission Meeting held on May 21, 2025, in Eugene, Oregon, focused on the implications of artificial turf in local parks and sports complexes. The meeting began with a discussion about the intent of the document presented, which aimed to inform the City Council about the experiences and challenges faced by other communities regarding artificial turf, particularly in relation to the upcoming Golden Gardens plan.

Commission member Lily emphasized the need to consider the "triple bottom line," which includes social, environmental, and economic factors, when evaluating the use of artificial turf. She highlighted the importance of parks and sports complexes for community engagement, especially as a participant in turf sports herself.

The conversation shifted when Tom, a former chemistry teacher, presented findings from a scientific paper on the health impacts of artificial turf. He raised concerns about the presence of harmful chemicals, including volatile organic compounds and PFAS, often referred to as "forever chemicals," which can pose health risks to the community. Tom expressed his apprehension about the safety of artificial turf, noting that it contains numerous toxic substances that could potentially leach into the environment.

The meeting concluded with a motion to extend the discussion time, allowing for further deliberation on the topic. The commission plans to continue exploring the implications of artificial turf as they prepare for future discussions with the City Council. Overall, the meeting underscored the complexities surrounding the use of artificial turf in Eugene, balancing community needs with health and environmental concerns.