RMA asks turfgrass group to correct statements

ERJ staff report (TB)

Washington -- The Rubber Manufacturers Association has written to the US-based natural turfgrass producers' association, asking it to correct information on its Web site the RMA said is inaccurate and damaging to crumb rubber turf producers.

The Dundee, Illinois-based Turfgrass Producers International, which represents the turfgrass sod industry, has a brochure on its Web site, “Natural Grass and Artificial Turf: Separating Myths and Facts.”

The brochure states among other things that crumb rubber turf may spread life-threatening bacteria and other toxic substances; is more likely to cause injuries and abrasions to athletes than natural grass; and develops extreme temperatures in hot weather making it impossible to play on.

“Tyres are classified as nonhazardous, nontoxic solid material,” said Michael Blumenthal, RMA vice president, in his letter to TPA. “No federal, state or local authority asserts otherwise.”

The RMA's own comprehensive review of the scientific and toxicological literature on crumb rubber turf showed the material is unlikely to cause any adverse health or ecological problems, Blumenthal said.

Blumenthal submitted a copy of the review with his letter, saying that he trusted the TPA would correct the information on its Web site.

From Rubber & Plastics News (A Crain publication)

Website of Turfgrass Producers