New infill-free synthetic pitch to be installed at Käpylä football field in Helsinki

A new type of artificial turf is set to be installed at Käpylä football field in Helsinki during early autumn, marking the introduction of the city’s first infill-free synthetic pitch. According to project coordinator Oleg Jauhonen from the city of Helsinki, these new turf systems are easier to recycle than the existing ones, as they do not use infill materials like rubber or wood particles. The new infill-free turfs can be recycled like plastic waste since they lack sand, rubber, or various types of plastics, while current synthetic turfs often end up as hazardous waste.

The removal of old turf can also contribute to environmental concerns; Jauhonen notes that up to 500 kilograms of rubber can be lost from a single football field each year, making this a pressing environmental issue. These lost materials often spread into natural ecosystems and stormwater systems.

Field experiences in Belgium with infill-free turf have been positive, and Jauhonen indicates that junior matches can be played on these new surfaces. However, their suitability for league-level games remains to be assessed.

With the EU’s regulation banning intentionally added microplastics coming into effect over the next seven years, Jauhonen emphasizes the necessity for Helsinki to prepare for this transition. Football Association official Tero Auvinen agrees on the importance of a transition period, which has been extended from six to eight years, allowing for the development of new sustainable materials that meet the specific demands posed by Finland’s cold, snowy winters. Finland alone will need to replace over 500 artificial fields due to the new regulations.