CONCERNS over microplastics found in astroturf have led to a rethink on the types of artificial sports pitches that will be installed in Worcester.

The problem isn’t the artificial grass itself but the small rubber granules used as infill on 2G and 3G pitches.

Artificial pitches have been found to be a major source of microplastics pollution - the granules are easily transferred via football boots, kit bags etc and find their way into the environment.

MOTION: Cllr Karen LawranceMOTION: Cllr Karen Lawrance (Image: Karen Lawrance)

A motion put before Worcester City Council by Lib Dem councillor Karen Lawrance called on the council to rethink future projects following the recent work on installation of a 3G pitch at Perdiswell Leisure Centre.

Cllr Lawrance said: “The city has a number of astroturf sport surfaces. This type of microplastic has been banned in the EU and is a growing concern worldwide and should be a concern to this council.”

The motion, which was supported by all councillors present at Tuesday’s full council meeting other than Tory councillor Alan Amos, calls on the Environment committee to identify “practical and affordable alternatives” to artificial turf infill and to look at best practice elsewhere.

It also requires future council projects proposing the use of astroturf to seek the committee’s approval.

“We recognise that there are natural, biodegradable materials available that can provide the same quality of play without the environmental impact,” said Cllr Jessie Jagger.

“This motion is about embedding good practice in our council in a systematic way and ensuring we stay on top of emerging technologies and do not fall behind our European friends when it comes to acting on environmental pollution.”

Labour’s deputy council leader Jabba Riaz said: “This is the right way to go in terms of embedding this into our policies.”

He also added an amendment to the motion that will see sports clubs consulted on the use of alternatives to existing artificial pitches.