A.5.2 Reduce microplastic contamination from artificial grass
Action Theme: Theme A: Actions to reduce land-based sources of marine litter
Action number: A.5.2
Action Title: Reduce microplastic contamination from artificial grass
Lead Party(ies): KIMO International and United Kingdom with support from Norway and Sweden
Image: ©Shutterstock
What is the issue?
Microplastic granules used in artificial grass sports pitches are a source of marine pollution. While there are developments to reduce the chemical contaminant impact of this material, the use and management of this product is currently unregulated and a cause of plastic pollution on land and in waterways and seas.
What has OSPAR done?
KIMO and the NGO FIDRA have published a community toolkit and best practice guidance to address microplastic from artificial grass, however their level of reach, promotion and adoption in Contracting Parties is unknown. Through this action, OSPAR will support better understanding and learning of how Contracting Parties can effect change in their administrations.
Final outputs and published reports
The first deliverables from this action are due in 2023. This will be a background document to provide the basis of further work.
