New LCA method scrutinizes microplastic impact from artificial turf

The European Union's "Green Deal" relies heavily on Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs) to gauge the environmental impact of products throughout their lifespan. However, a researcher at Johannes Kepler University Linz (JKU) is developing a novel LCA approach to address the shortcomings of existing methods, particularly concerning microplastics.

Lukas Zeilerbauer's research focuses on evaluating microplastic emissions from artificial turf, specifically football pitches. His work suggests that while microplastic emissions from the polypropylene used in the turf and the rubber granules are not the main drivers of ecosystem damage, the current data and assessment methodologies are inadequate. This highlights a critical need for future research, especially as bio-based granules are being considered as replacement materials.

Zeilerbauer's innovative methodology aims to assess and mitigate environmental impacts early in the product development phase, without requiring costly new equipment. This approach bridges the gap between retrospective LCAs and future-oriented assessments.

Further research, conducted in collaboration with a Dutch research center, examined the recycling of polypropylene through washing and sorting processes. The findings indicate that hot washing with chemicals does not significantly improve the material's properties or its recyclability. In fact, achieving higher quality recyclate requires substantial additional effort, which can paradoxically lead to a worse environmental performance. The study also compared analyses based on laboratory experiments with those based on actual waste fractions, revealing discrepancies in the results.