WASHINGTON – November 6, 2025 – Americans overwhelmingly support recycled rubber and artificial turf use across parks, playgrounds, and sports fields in the United States. That’s according to a new survey conducted by the Better Play Initiative (BPI).
The findings reveal that a strong majority of Americans (82%) believe that recycled rubber is safe for people to play on in recreational settings. Despite the myths and misinformation surrounding these materials, people recognize the value that recycled rubber provides to communities, offering safer and more accessible play for all.
Americans Chose Artificial Turf Over Natural Grass
Moreover, when Americans are asked to choose between artificial turf and natural grass for upgrades to recreational areas, a strong majority (72%) would choose artificial turf over natural grass. This finding upends the conventional wisdom and cuts through the years of debate surrounding artificial turf and recycled rubber, making clear that people prioritize safe play opportunities, consistent field access, and durable spaces that support recreation and active lifestyles.
“Americans are sending a clear message: they want recreational spaces that welcome everyone and support year-round play,” said Scott Gerber, Program Director for the Better Play Initiative. “They are tired of muddy fields, canceled games, and parks that are closed for days when it rains. As a baseball coach and a parent, I see the disappointment when kids show up ready to play and are turned away because a field is unplayable. When given the choice, people chose recycled rubber and artificial turf over natural grass because they want spaces they can rely on to be open and accessible. Our survey indicates that Americans clearly want parks, playgrounds, and playing fields that deliver safe, accessible, and consistent play opportunities. They see recycled rubber and artificial turf as the key to making that a reality.”
Weather Closures and Field Conditions Shape Public Opinion
The survey revealed that people are facing weather and maintenance challenges at recreational facilities, which adds unnecessary barriers for outdoor activity. In fact, 61% of respondents report that youth in their community have missed out on play or sports because of mud, standing water, or damaged grass at their local park or playing field.
Communities that utilize recycled rubber and artificial turf are reclaiming these missed hours of play, and 73% of Americans support the use of artificial turf in their local parks, playgrounds, and playing fields. This level of public support shows that firsthand experience with weather-related closures, muddy fields, and worn-down parks takes priority. Nearly two-thirds (65%) of Americans say they view recycled rubber infill even more positively if it were proven to reduce weather-related park closures or game cancellations.
The Science is Strong
Confidence in recycled rubber and artificial turf is reinforced when credible scientific bodies evaluate these materials. Sixty-nine percent of respondents say they trust recycled rubber and artificial turf the most when research and studies are published by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) specifically.
In March 2025, the California EPA and Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) released one of the most comprehensive studies to date that found “no significant health risks to players, coaches, referees and spectators from on-field or off-field exposure” to synthetic turf using crumb rubber infill. In 2024, the U.S. EPA published a joint study that essentially found that exposure to crumb rubber is similar to grass. These studies add to an extensive and growing body of research demonstrating that recycled rubber is a safe component of recreational infrastructure.
A Smart Investment for Local Economies
The survey revealed that many Americans recognized that economic benefits, such as increased tourism (50%) and higher property values (62%), follow when communities decide to upgrade their play areas with recycled rubber and artificial turf today.
Americans view these materials as an investment that strengthens neighborhoods, supports small businesses, and brings more activity into local parks and athletic facilities.
Additional Survey Findings Include:
- Respondents said they would support turf installation if it reduced injuries (77%), lowered long-term costs (79%), and prevented weather-related closures (76%).
- 82% of parents with children younger than 18 years believe artificial turf with recycled rubber infill is safe for people to play on.
- 74% of parents would choose turf over grass today if their community could upgrade current recreational facilities.
- One in three (33%) respondents also reports that their local play spaces lack accessible features for people with disabilities.
Survey Methodology: The Better Play Initiative surveyed 1,000 U.S. consumers above the age of 18 using the online insights platform Pollfish, with a margin of error of approximately ±3 percentage points at the 95% confidence level. The survey was completed the week of October 20, 2025.
About the Better Play Initiative
The Better Play Initiative is a nationwide public education campaign that provides definitive resources on recycled rubber surfaces for parks, playgrounds, and playing fields, as well as other applications. The Initiative supports communities with up-to-date information on the safety, reliability, and durability of surfaces using crumb rubber and other recycled rubber products. Additional information can be found by visiting BetterPlayToday on LinkedIn and X.
Scott Gerber, Program Director
Scott Gerber is the Program Director of the Better Play Initiative. A resident of Arlington, VA, Scott coaches Little League and serves on the Board of Arlington United Baseball. As a youth sports organizer and community advocate, he is passionate about empowering safe play and accessible recreation spaces.
Media Contact
Janelle Davis, janelle@vrge.us
