3/24/26, 8:02 AMInbox - Gao, Beilei - Outlook
8B Outlook
Public comment on artificial turf
From Suzanne York
Date Tue 3/24/2026 7:48 AM
To Gao, Beilei <[email protected]>
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To the Members of the Pasadena Municipal Services Committee, I am writing to respectfully urge you to reject any current or future artificial turf projects in Pasadena- including new installations, replacements, and maintenance contracts.
As more data emerges, concerns about the health and environmental risks of artificial turf continue to grow. Artificial turf is not simply "plastic grass"- it is a complex system made up of synthetic fibers, infill (often crumb rubber from recycled tires), and chemical treatments. Studies have identified hundreds of chemicals in these materials, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), phthalates, and PFAS, so-called "forever chemicals"-many of which are known carcinogens, neurotoxi cants, and endocrine disruptors.
PFAS in particular are deeply concerning. These chemicals persist in the environment and in our bodies, and have been linked to immune dysfunction, developmental harm, and increased cancer risk. Artificial turf also contributes to microplastic pollution, contaminates surrounding soil and waterways through runoff, and creates hotter surface temperatures that can endanger users.
While some studies suggest limited direct evidence of harm, the scientific consensus is clear on one critical point: there are significant gaps in long-term health research, especially regarding cumulative exposure, particularly for children, who are more vulnerable. In the face of such uncertainty, the precautionary principle should guide public decision-making.
At the same time, Pasadena has not fully explored the potential of natural turf as a viable, forward- looking alternative. Advances in turfgrass science, such as the work being done at the University of California, Irvine, are developing more resilient, drought-tolerant grass systems that can dramatically reduce water use while maintaining durability. These innovations offer a path toward fields that are not only safer and cooler, but also more environmentally sustainable and cost-effective over their full lifecycle.
Real grass fields provide natural cooling, support biodiversity, avoid plastic waste, and eliminate the ongoing exposure to synthetic chemicals. With proper investment and modern management practices, they can meet Pasadena's recreational needs without placing our children, our communities, and our environment at unnecessary risk.
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Pasadena has long been a leader in environmental stewardship. This is an opportunity to lead again- by choosing solutions that prioritize health, sustainability, and long-term fiscal responsibility.
I urge you to do the only right thing: reject artificial turf projects and commit to exploring and investing in safer, natural alternatives.
Respectfully,
Suzanne York, resident, District 2 and member of Pasadena Environmental Advisory Commission https://outlook.office.com/mail/inbox/id/AAkALgAAAAAAHYQDEapmEc2byACqAC%2FEWgOA3H%2Bnm4To90yV%2B7YkwvQp7gABNjwpKAAA?nati..2/2