Our project examined the environmental impacts of crumb rubber infill used in synthetic turf fields, with a focus on how contaminants may affect nearby water systems and agricultural areas. Crumb rubber is commonly made from recycled vehicle tires and is widely used because it is cost-effective and durable. However, research has shown that it can release contaminants such as heavy metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and 6PPD-quinone into the environment through stormwater runoff and weathering processes. These contaminants may accumulate in soils, sediments, and surface waters, creating potential risks for aquatic ecosystems and nearby food-growing areas. The goal of this project was to identify the main contaminant pathways, assess potential environmental risks, and explore strategies municipalities can use to reduce contamination. Our work aligns with CityStudio Vancouver’s sustainability and environmental resilience initiatives by supporting safer urban infrastructure and improved stormwater management practices. We reviewed current scientific literature on contaminant transport, bioaccumulation, runoff management, and alternative infill materials, while also evaluating mitigation approaches such as bioswales, constructed wetlands, filtration systems, and phytoremediation.

Through this project, we learned how environmental conditions such as rainfall, temperature, drainage design, and soil composition influence contaminant mobility and long-term environmental impacts. We also found that while crumb rubber provides economic and functional benefits, there are still significant uncertainties regarding long-term ecological effects, particularly for emerging contaminants such as 6PPD-quinone. Our recommendations include implementing routine runoff monitoring near synthetic turf fields, improving stormwater treatment systems, incorporating vegetated buffer zones, and considering alternative infill materials with lower environmental risk. Continued research and site-specific risk assessments are also needed to better understand long-term impacts and support evidence-based municipal decision-making.

Next Steps

While the project is not currently being implemented directly in the community, the research and recommendations may help inform future discussions regarding synthetic turf field design, environmental monitoring, and runoff management strategies. The project identified several areas where further research is still needed, particularly regarding the long-term environmental impacts of contaminants such as 6PPD-quinone and the effectiveness of alternative infill materials. Future work could include field-based monitoring studies, testing runoff treatment systems, or evaluating the performance of different mitigation strategies under local environmental conditions. Although our formal work on the project has concluded with the end of the term, the findings may contribute to future environmental assessments and sustainability initiatives related to urban stormwater management and synthetic turf systems.