Context

Historical:

Artificial turf was introduced in the 1960s as a durable alternative to natural grass, but safety concerns arose by the 1970s when studies showed increased injury rates. A 1975 study from The Journal of Sports Medicine found that athletes on artificial turf suffered knee ligament injuries 45% more often than those on natural grass (Smith 23), leading professional leagues like the NFL to reconsider its widespread use. 

Technological:

While artificial turf eliminates the need for pesticides and fertilizers, it contributes to environmental issues such as landfill waste, heat retention, and chemical leaching. A Year in Review report noted that early artificial turf fields created extensive waste, with synthetic fibers not designed for recycling, and surface temperatures reaching up to 160°F, nearly double that of natural grass (Stromberg). 

Social:

Athletes and sports organizations have continuously advocated for a return to natural grass, citing safety risks and injury rates. The NFL Players Association has pushed for policy changes as studies link artificial surfaces to higher rates of lower-body injuries, while cities like New York have restricted the installation of crumb rubber infill due to concerns over harmful chemicals (Cheng et al.).