Large scale greenery projects are implemented in middle east for past two decades. Recently, synthetic grass is largely used replacing natural grass. Makes some sense largely the maintenance cost, natural grass use to burn at 50oC temperature we have for couple of months in summers and the synthetic survives. Is it environmentally sound, pro climate change mitigation?
Problems with artificial grass:
1. It does not support natural soil ecosystem (insects, worms, microbes, grazers, etc.).
2. Over time bits and pieces break off and become pollutants; if ingested it may even cause harms.
3. It does not fix carbon through photosynthesis, so there is no carbon burial. Production of the synthetic materials actually increases carbon emission.
4. It does not help stabilize soil and mitigate surface water runoff.
5. It does not promote public's appreciation and understanding of nature.
Leaves normally appear green because they contain chloroplasts that are green in colour.
I am confused as why a logical and pertinent response of Kam is downvoted.
Natural grass appears green because its leaves contain chloroplasts that are green in colour. The chloroplast consists of a pigment called chlorophyll, which helps in photosynthesis. Leaves normally absorb light at higher wavelengths, which is essential for carrying out photosynthesis. So artificial grass may appear green to our eyes due to inorganic compounds having copper etc., but don't has chlorophyll, to absorb the the sunlight. Artificial grass simply scatter green part of spectrum. As a glass absorbs all colour except green, therefore, it scatter green nd have a green glow.
I am in agreement with Kam and Dr. Mohammad. I myself dont see environmentally sound reasons to adopt it. But those pushing for thsi change put cost of irrigation, the grass in this part of the world is burnt in 50oC temperature that exist for 3 mo and thsi is taken as a solution. The other issue wich is quite likely to come is from waste management perspective. after the end of life of these turfs they are going to land in landfills in huge quantalies. Other issues are related to rummer crumbs that are used as infills in third generation turfs.
Dear Saif
Everything that glitters is not gold. Likewise, everything that seems green is not GREEN!
Rather, this artificial greenery is equally non-environment friendly, in the end.
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