Problem:
A local parent teacher association in Maryland was concerned about the health effects of artificial turf fields. They requested that Region 3 PEHSU provide a presentation regarding the health impacts of artificial turf to their members, elected officials, and other local policymakers.
Solution:
Region 3 PEHSU participated in several planning calls and developed a presentation highlighting the health risks of artificial turf to children and adolescents. Other panelists included University of Maryland turf experts and a third-generation turf business owner. The PTA also requested that PEHSU write a letter to the Board of Education regarding the health impacts of artificial turf.
Impact:
There were approximately 150 people in attendance for the presentation, and the parent teacher association shared a recording of the meeting with the Board of Education members who could not attend in person. Region 3 PEHSU provided a letter to the PTA that included information about the environmental health concerns of turf fields, including: the vulnerabilities to environmental exposure among school age children and teenagers as their bodies and organs are still developing; the unique exposures from artificial turf; and the risk of injury, burns, heat-related illness; and microplastics and chemical exposures. No further decisions have been made at this time.