The Australian Garden History Society (AGHS) is opposed to the installation of plastic grass because it contravenes our mission to conserve significant gardens and cultural landscapes. You can read our policy here: AGHS Policy on Plastic Grass Feb 26.
In summary, unlike natural grass turf, which serves as a carbon sink, and reduces and stores water run off from rain, thereby mitigating the effects of climate change, plastic grass, a by-product of fossil fuels, has a major climate change impact. Plastic grass contributes to urban heat islands since the surface temperature of this artificial substance on hot days can be at least double that of natural turf. Moreover the presence of PFAS or forever chemicals in the tens of thousands of the plastic particles in each square metre of ‘grass’ can pollute soil and waterways, enter the human food chain and have adverse effects on human health.
Our policy also explains how the use of plastic grass contravenes multiple key principles of the Burra Charter, the basis of best practice heritage conservation in Australia. With thanks to Anne Claoue-Long for her assistance in drafting this policy.