Water-conserving and drought-resistant artificial grass

200 gallons of water, that’s the maximum consumption an average American uses every day and 30% of this water is used outdoors. This equates to 60 gallons of water used outside by a single person, every single day. Multiply that by millions of people and you get an alarming estimated amount of water absorbed into the ground at 9 billion gallons. In Minnesota and other parts of the country, many residents even over-water their lawns. They end up watering sidewalks and pavements—all this while some states are experiencing drought.

 

What is drought?

 

Drought is a weather-related phenomenon that comes second only to hurricanes in causing economic problems in the United States. It’s commonly known as a period of continuously unusually dry weather leading to damaged crops and shortage in water supplies. However, because dry conditions have different reasons for coming to be, droughts are also caused just the same.

 

According to David Miskus, a drought expert and meteorologist at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Climate Prediction Center, "Drought is caused by not only lack of precipitation and high temperatures but by [overuse] and overpopulation.”

 

Two researching scientists in the ’80s published over a hundred definitions of drought in the journal “Water International.” They grouped drought into four basic categories: meteorological, hydrological, agricultural, and socioeconomic. The first three considered drought as a physical phenomenon, while the last one shows it as a supply-and-demand problem.

 

Meteorological drought affects regions. States like Georgia, North and South Carolina, and Florida are more likely to experience this kind of drought. This is because of their placement on the map. It’s no surprise that these states are where artificial grass is readily available and sold.

 

Agricultural drought considers the water needs of crops in their growing stages.

 

Hydrological drought is the persistent low water volumes in streams, rivers, and reservoirs. Human activities can worsen this type of drought.

 

Socioeconomic drought occurs when the demand for water exceeds the supply. This comes as a result of meteorological, agricultural, and hydrological droughts. Due to the already short supply that cannot reach the average human demand and consumption, the price of water can fluctuate as well.

 

A patch of 1000 square feet of natural grass lawn requires about 35,000 gallons of water every year. The Association of California Water Agencies, however, say that up to 60% of people over water their lawns. This leads to the usage of more than twice the expected requirement, at 75,000 gallons.

 

How does artificial grass help to steer clear of drought?

 

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) nearly one-third (1/3) of water used in households across the country is allotted to landscape irrigation or simply stated: watering lawns. This is the same lawn that needs to be weeded out, mowed, and taken care of.

 

See, the thing is, with artificial grass, you don’t need water! Artificial turf water use is substantially less than what’s needed for a natural lawn. It’s considered drought resistant because other than it saves water, its appearance doesn’t get affected by drought either. Because of technology, it’s possible to have a beautifully manicured lawn, now without the time, chemicals, and water needed for maintenance. Artificial grass doesn’t have to depend on the weather or climate in order to stay vibrant and look amazing.

 

Thousands of gallons of water per year can be saved by making the switch! Artificial grass, being made of plastic, does not cave into the dry spell. It remains as lush any day of the year, and it keeps your lawn beautiful no matter the circumstances. It doesn’t cost you astronomical water bills, either. Watering artificial grass doesn’t do much, except clean it. And that’s not even an everyday requirement.

 

It’s a cost-efficient, water-conserving, and drought-resistant package that requires little to no maintenance so you can stay inside on the driest of days. Conserve water, install artificial grass. It’s going to be one big win for your household and the environment!

 

What do states affected by drought do about it?

 

 

California and Texas, America’s most populated states, have been facing droughts. California started experiencing drought in 2014, and the government has shelled out an extra 2 billion dollars annually in response to drought conditions.

 

Water managers want to lessen water consumption. So California has taken other actions like price hikes for water in some parts of the state because of the drought. In an effort to lessen demand for water, parts of California like Orange County and the Monterey Peninsula, offer rebates. This is also done in most of the United States. These rebates are given to those who make the decision to forward water conservation through drought-resistant landscaping.

 

Installing artificial grass can entitle you to a rebate in selected areas. Just make sure to check your local government’s website for the requirements and how to avail of the rebate.

 

So, not only does artificial turf save up on water resources, but it also brings your weekends back, and keeps your yard looking great. You will also get a return on your money from the government for choosing eco-friendly solutions for your home.

 

Currently, only selected states are affected by drought, but due to global warming and climate change, things can get worse. The water scarcity could affect all the states in the future in some way. Over the past few years, water price has been rising—as much as six percent—for a single family’s annual consumption. This is because of supplies being slurped out and not being replenished fast enough to cater to the demand.

 

Other parts of the world allot more budget to areas where there is a drought in order to sustain the lives of their inhabitants. The effects of drought are felt worldwide, not just in the Northern American region. No matter how much we don’t want climate change, it is a reality that we’re going to have to live with for the next generations.

 

Other parts of the world allot more budget to areas where there is a drought in order to sustain the lives of their inhabitants. The effects of drought are felt worldwide, not just in the Northern American region. No matter how much we don’t want climate change, it is a reality that we’re going to have to live with for the next generations.

 

Temperate parts of the country like California coast will experience sharper weather changes. The whole state of California will have intense rainfall before extreme dryness, or weather whiplash. This is backed by scientific studies, more specifically, the Weather 2050 project.

 

So it’s time to act now.

 

We must change the way we live our lives in order to sustain the Earth’s life. Prioritize eco-friendly, sustainable products in your everyday choices. Make that change with MegaGrass.

source https://megagrass.com/blogs/news/water-conserving-artificial-grass

The Dangers of Drought: Causes, Effects & Why We Should Avoid It

The National Geographic defines drought as an extended period of unusually dry weather when there is not enough rain. By “not enough”, it means that the rainfall in a given time period cannot provide for the needs of a given location. And rain is needed to grow crops, and provide for the area’s water supply.

 

As climate change interferes with regular weather systems, drought is bound to be a definite side effect. Scientific studies show that irregular systems in atmospheric circulation can interrupt with storm paths causing no rain for months at a time. Changes in wind patterns can also affect how much moisture remains in the soil.

 

In simple terms, climate change is causing unforeseen changes in weather patterns. These changes lead to a difference in the period of rainy days there are in a given time frame. For example, if we experience a week of rain in July this year, that could change to just five days in the next year due to climate change.

 

How does drought conditions affect people?

 

The absence of rain may lead to survival problems such as limited amounts of potable water and damage to plants. As we know, water is the basic necessity of human beings and other living things. And plants compose the lowest layer of the food chain. Without water nor plants, the food chain will crumble and man’s survival is bound to only last for a very short period of time.

 

Socio-economic issues such as hunger and necessary re-settlement of residence, among others, can also arise from drought-related events. If there becomes a low supply of water in an area, people will have no choice but to vacate (if they can) to a place with a better water source. (This is why in The Hunger Games, the first place a tribute looks to camp is near a river.)

 

Megadrought is not a transformer.

 

The Washington Post reports that “Megadroughts are sustained periods of sparse precipitation and significant loss of soil moisture that span generations, about 10 times as long as a normal three-year drought.” If you thought a three-year drought was bad, try thirty.

 

The current drought being experienced in the Southwest United States is not even comparable to what’s expected to come. In the later years of the century, a megadrought will be experienced throughout the region and the central Plains. This can possibly drive out people from those areas leading to an economic crisis.

 

In 35 years, if climate change continues at its current rate, the said areas will experience a shift in weather. That swing will last approximately three decades. During megadroughts, there will be harsh impacts on megacities, populations, and water availability. Lack of water can lead to so many health problems, not just famine, but also sanitation issues and pollution.

 

Cornell University, Columbia University, and NASA researchers forewarned major water shortages and problems that could lead to drying out vegetation. This, in turn, will lead to “monster” wildfires in southern Arizona and parts of California. These are all the results of climate change and its unnatural acceleration throughout the years.

 

Water Consumption

 

An average American consumes a maximum of 200 gallons of water per day. Taking baths, flushing down the toilet, brushing teeth, cooking, and drinking all consume water. 30% of the daily consumption is used on outdoor activities, like cleaning the car, mowing the lawn, and gardening. This leads to the conclusion that 60 gallons of water are used outside by a single person, every single day. If we multiply that to the millions of people in the United States, we get more or less about 9 billion gallons of water.

 

Unwanted Water Consumption

 

Irrigation systems for lawns are problematic for having leaks. Installed underground sprinklers are turned on regularly and they go unnoticed when leaking. According to the EPA, an irrigation system with a leak of 1/32nd of an inch in diameter (about the thickness of a dime) can waste about 6,300 gallons of water per month.

 

Let us clarify that, a hole with the thickness of a dime, not the diameter of a dime, can cause that much water to leak in a month! If 1 CCF (100 cubic feet / 748 gallons) of water in California costs $3.88, that would amount to at least $30 a month on a tiny leak. That’s how much water your irrigation system is wasting, and how much money you’re paying… for nothing.

 

The Environmental Protection Agency EPA finds that leaks “can waste more than 1 trillion gallons per year nationwide. That’s equal to the annual household use of more than 11 million homes.” These leaks go unnoticed because a few drops of water don’t seem like a big deal on the outset. However, counting millions of households with leaky pipes and faulty water sources, leaks cause an average of about 2.7 billion gallons. That’s 2.7 billion gallons of water wasted in the United States of America because of leakage and poor plumbing.

 

Water used on your lawn

 

The EPA found that nearly one-third (1/3) of residential water consumption across the country is used in watering landscapes. That amount is used, more often than not, for lawns.

 

According to a NASA study, lawns in the United States, when clumped together, would take as much space as the New York state (not the city). The total land area would be about fifty thousand square miles of grass. If, in theory, we water lawns every day amounting to that big of an area, we would need an astronomical amount of water! Unfortunately, there are still a lot of households that regularly water their lawns daily. Thus, using a great quantity of water for the grass. Natural lawns aren’t good ideas for water conservation.

 

According to a NASA study, lawns in the United States, when clumped together, would take as much space as the New York state (not the city). The total land area would be about fifty thousand square miles of grass. If, in theory, we water lawns every day amounting to that big of an area, we would need an astronomical amount of water! Unfortunately, there are still a lot of households that regularly water their lawns daily. Thus, using a great quantity of water for the grass. Natural lawns aren’t good ideas for water conservation.

 

Switch to drought resistant, water-conserving, and convenient landscaping.

 

If you want a lush patch of green without the hassle and cost of maintenance, artificial grass is the way to go. Install artificial grass in your lawn. You don’t need to be watering artificial grass for it to stay gorgeous! Artificial turf water use is significantly lower than keeping a natural grass lawn. And if you’re in a certain county or state, some local governments give out rebates if you make the switch! It’s convenient for you, and it can help save the Earth, too!

 

Conserve water every day to keep the drought away!

source https://megagrass.com/blogs/news/the-dangers-of-drought

MegaGrass vs Other Artificial Grass Companies

The Dream.

 

A white picket fence around a perfectly manicured yard. Beautiful and smart children in the home. A nice car or two. But that was before. Today, that dream has changed. More and more people are rethinking their goals and what the dream is all about

 

Despite this change, some things remain the same. In fact, the details of this ideal remain unchanged for most people. Today, people still think that a landscaped yard means success. This is because a well-kept lawn suggests that the homeowners have the means to support such luxury. Pristine lawns, in a way, highlight a home’s status in a community. It’s an indicator of social and economic character.

 

At present, a fairly large industry exists around lawn care. This market is slowly being explored by a lot of landscape companies.

 

One of these growing industries is the fake grass turf industry. This market is driven by rising demands for low maintenance grass used for sporting events and more. One important factor for this demand is water conservation, which is a welcome change given our planet’s current conditions.

 

Unlike in old times, the lawns of today are no longer markers of success. The introduction of fake grass to the world gave people more landscape options. In the past, only the more affluent people could afford to have pretty lawns. Now, all it takes is a call to a contractor and you can have your own lawn ready in no time.

 

Who is MegaGrass?

 

And who better to cater to your sensitive landscaping needs than a company like MegaGrass? MegaGrass is an industry-leading provider of eco-friendly landscaping solutions. Here at MegaGrass, we provide artificial grass products that fit a wide range of lifestyles.

 

We’ve been rolling out artificial grass innovations for more than a decade, and we’re more than happy to bend to your needs.

 

Fake turf with higher melting points? Check.

 

Weatherproof and waterproof grass varieties that withstand season changes? Check.

 

High-draining grass lawns for puppies big and small? Check.

 

But we don’t just manufacture and distribute guilt-free landscaping products, we also make sure that our clients have easy access to them through 11 locations all over the United States.

 

MegaGrass is part of the EcoGreen America family. EcoGreen America is artificial grass and hedge company headquartered in Las Vegas. Much like MegaGrass, EcoGreen America is devoted to producing the highest quality, eco-friendly grass products for better landscaping solutions.

 

Our company was founded in 2009 and was motivated by the valiant search for beautiful and sustainable grass alternatives in the deserts of Nevada. Along with our company’s creation was the creation of the Stip Blade - a delustered synthetic grass blade that diffuses light withstands traffic, and keeps surface temperatures at tolerable levels.

 

As a company, we strive to make a difference in humanity’s carbon footprint. Our terminal goal is 360 sustainability, and we do so while making sure we enrich your life.

 

Artificial Grass Offerings

 

Currently, MegaGrass offers 6 grass collections that fit all sorts of lifestyles and needs. They are conveniently categorized into the following:

 

MegaLawn

 

Easy to maintain and will pay for itself in time--that’s what you can expect from the MegaLawn collection. This artificial lawn is best for homeowners who use a big part of their monthly expenses for natural lawn care. With a more sustainable option available, home maintenance will now be more cost efficient for the household.

 

MegaPorch

 

The MegaPorch collection is best known for being more long lasting compared to other deck surfaces. As beautiful as it is convenient, this artificial porch turf is perfect for making homes more appealing to guests. It may also be used to cover up bad spots on your deck so the area looks perfect at all times.

 

MegaPet

 

Passionate pet owners are more than happy to spend time and money on their fur babies. So we’re pretty sure skimping on a decent play and potty area is not an option for these “pawrents”. The MegaPet artificial grass for dogs collection caters to the sensitive needs of animals of all breed sizes. These grass lawns are easy to clean, well-draining, and they also stay looking great despite all the pet traffic.

 

MegaGolf

 

You don’t have to be a pro to deserve a beautiful putting green. Step up your golf game with the MegaGolf collection. Engineered to aid play improvement, this fake putting grass can efficiently better your short game and easily take strokes off your score.

 

MegaPlay

 

Play areas aren’t always constructed with safety in mind. True, a small accident here and there might seem like a learning experience for kids. But teachable moments don’t have to hurt that much right? That is where the MegaPlay playground turf collection comes in. It is the best alternative to hard floor beds found in traditional playgrounds. It is not only designed to be durable, it also provides a cushion, so kids can get away from accidents with only minor scratches or maybe even none.

 

MegaSport

 

For superior turf traction and efficient force reduction on the off chance of an injury, MegaSport is your grass. The MegaSport collection is designed to optimize sports performance, improve balance, and increase coordination. The blades of this artificial sports turf allow a level playing surface perfect for agility training.

 

Artificial Grass Technology

 

At a glance, artificial grass lawns seem so simple and basic. What people don’t know is that a lot of research goes into every individual blade to guarantee quality and provide features unique to the brand. Below we highlight some of the innovations we have incorporated into our products:

 

EverGreen

 

You want your artificial turf to be a healthy color of green, not too bright and not too dull. The EverGreen technology makes sure that the blades of the turf will blend with the thatching for a more natural looking shade. With this tech at hand, your grass can look fresher for longer.

 

EverFlow

 

If you’re using your grass as a potty for your beloved pets, then drainage is very important. The EverFlow technology greatly improves the drainage of every fake grass panel on your lawn. This will significantly cut down your cleanup time, so you can have more cuddle time with your babies.

 

EverCool

 

The truth about fake turf is that unlike natural grass, it can get relatively warm or hot depending on the weather. And since it is made of plastic, there is a chance that it will melt under extreme temperatures--but not with EverCool. The EverCool technology significantly keeps turf cooler than regular fake grass. Now you can enjoy your time on your lawn better for longer.

 

EverFresh

 

Nobody wants a lawn that smells. With EverFresh you can keep you turf smelling like freshly cut natural grass. Welcome every day with a scent that reminds you of how wonderful it is to spend time outdoors--even when outdoors mean you’re just sitting on your lawn.

 

Artificial Grass Cost Comparison 

Here we discuss some of the choices you have when it comes to fake grass. From cheap to premium, we want to help you find the products that best fit your needs.

 

Area: Your Lawn

Your Choices:

The Cheap: Shaddock Fishing

Sells at $3.45 per square feet through Amazon.

The Sensible: LITA

Sells at $10.07 per square feet through Amazon.

The Costly: UltraHedge

Sells at $32.09 per square feet through Amazon.

Bonus: MegaLawn Platinum

Sells at $32.09 per square feet through Amazon.

MegaLawn Platinum is lead-free, toxin-free, and weatherproof.

 

Area: Your Pet Runs/Pet Potty

Your Choices:

The Cheap: Zen Garden

Sells at $3.21 per square feet through Amazon.

The Sensible: Green Label Turf

Sells at $4.89 per square feet through Amazon.

The Costly: Fas Home

Sells at $20.81 per square feet through Amazon.

Bonus: MegaPet Platinum

Sells at $3.44 per square feet through megagrass.com

MegaPet Platinum drains well and has crafted blades for more function

 

Area: Your Golf Space

Your Choices:

The Cheap: UltraHedge

Sells at $1.20 per square feet through Amazon.

The Sensible: MegaGrass

Sells at $30.95 per square feet through Amazon.

The Costly: Pet Grow

Sells at $32.61 per square feet through Amazon

Bonus: MegaGolf Platinum

Sells at $2.47 per square feet through megagrass.com

MegaGolf Platinum is best for putting greens and courses. It is tested to control green speed.

 

Area: Your Sport Areas

Your Choices:

The Cheap: Sun Villa

Sells at $2.30 per square feet through Amazon.

The Sensible: MegaGrass

Sells at $4.45 per square feet through Amazon.

The Costly: UltraHedge

Sells at $32.09 per square feet through Amazon.

Bonus: MegaPet Platinum

Sells at $2.73 per square feet through megagrass.com

MegaSports Platinum is built with t and c shaped blades. The blades spring back up no matter how much they are trampled on.

 

You have a lot of other choices aside from the ones above. The specs vary from one turf supplier to another. Price gaps depend on the tech added into the blades, backings, drainage, and more. The better the features, the higher the price tag. There are also other brands on the market that you can check out, and we have named some of them below:

 

Astroturf

Fieldturf

ForeverLawn

SYNLawn

Synthetics Grass Warehouse

 

You don’t have to settle for low-quality turf with a small budget. With proper research, you can find quality fake turf at good prices. For instance, with MegaPlay Platinum you can cover play areas at $4.63 per square foot. This grass has extra cushions and shock pads. It’s perfect for playgrounds and best used by people with joint issues.

 

Artificial Grass Warranty

Here at MegaGrass, we proudly offer a competitive 25-year lush-life guarantee for all our clients. As proof of our confidence in our product, we make sure that our customers have access to premium warranty services. We believe in taking care of our clientele, and we do our best to deliver on that promise.

 

Customer Support

Got questions on a product? Want to learn more about your shipping status? Get in touch with our team to get answers. You may contact us via phone, email, or through our website where you can chat with one of our customer service associates.

 

Direct to Customer Benefits

Whenever you order a product from a reseller, there are mandatory fees that are included in the cost. When you order directly from MegaGrass, you get rid of all those fees because there will be no need to pay these “middlemen” for their service. As a company that is proud of our 11 accessible locations in the United States, we are happy to say that with you making a direct purchase from us, you’re actually saving money you can spend on other accessories for your landscaping project!

 

The MegaGrass Difference

 

Higher prices don’t always mean quality. They might, but like any other rule, there is an exception. Research on the different types of fake grass. Check out samples. Take time to read reviews. These are just some of the ways you can check which product best fits your needs and budget.

 

But if you’re looking for a feature that stands out from the rest, then MegaGrass is the company to call. What makes us different from other grass companies is our ability to provide custom cut turf sizes for your particular needs. While most turf companies only sell grass by 15’ widths, we cut according to the demands of your landscaping project to minimize losses when trimming turf.

 

If you have a very particular set of requirements, requirements you have acquired over the years while tied down to your high-maintenance natural lawn, you’ll be pleased to know that we got you covered.

 

Gone are the days when people’s lawns reflected their status in life. Nowadays, any home can get a similar experience with the help of artificial grass. These people are also changing their ways into an earth-friendly one.

 

Buying smart is better than just shopping for items with the highest prices. Remember, an item that is costly isn’t always high-quality. There are makers like MegaGrass who don’t only focus on sales. We at MegaGrass try hard to provide eco-friendly solutions to people who love our products. In a world where companies are all about sales, we chose to be kinder to the planet.

 

We support sustainability and believe that we can do better. One of our goals is to educate people about fake grass and how it helps improve the quality of their lives.

 

This survey not only aims to list down prices of grass products. It also aims to inform people that in their choices there is power. Being mindful of your choices is good for your homes. These choices are even better for the planet as a whole.

 

Here at MegaGrass we try to make a difference in the world however we can. We’d love for you to join this movement. To know more about our vision and how we wish to accomplish them, you may visit us at megagrass.com.

source https://megagrass.com/blogs/news/megagrass-vs-other-artificial-grass-companies

Is Artificial Turf Safe for Children and Pets?

Is Artificial Turf Safe for Your Babies With and Without Fur?

As parents to our little ones, our top priority is always their safety. Their well-being is protected at all costs, even more than ours. We want them to grow healthy, well-rounded, and with love for themselves much as we have.

 

This is why the first thing we ask ourselves when we see artificial grass is… “Is artificial turf safe for my children?”

 

Is it, really? To understand this, we must first dig into the composition of artificial turf.

 

What is artificial grass made of?

Most artificial turfs are made of polyethylene. It’s the kind of plastic used to make children’s toys, grocery bags, and even bullet-proof vests. Polypropylene is also in the mix. This is commonly used for plastic utensils and microwavable containers. Nylon is also used for heat resistance.

 

Are these the materials that make artificial grass dangerous?

No.

 

An article from The Washington Post written by Stuart Shalat, an Environmental Health Professor, discusses this topic. And we’re more than happy to give you his insights for your reference.

 

Shalat says, “Based on studies I have reviewed and conducted, I believe there is a potential health risk because of the chemicals in tires, which are recycled into crumbs to support the plastic blades of synthetic grass.”

 

What is artificial turf made up of?

 

As Shalat talks through, “Artificial turf is made up of three major parts:

 

1. Backing material that will serve to hold the individual blades of artificial grass

2. The plastic blades themselves.

3. The infill, those tiny black crumbs, that helps support the blades.”.

 

What makes them harmful?

Shalat points out, “Various pigments are used to provide the green color of the blades. These can include lead or titanium for the white lines and still other metals for school logos on the field.

 

Those little black crumbs are the problems. Tires can be toxic.”

 

Is artificial turf safe for kids?

 

Yes, definitely! Crumb rubber made from the ground up recycled tires are the culprits that make artificial grass unsafe. These are the properties that give artificial grass such a bad reputation. The good news is: putting infill is optional. Also, there are no natural alternatives to it like crushed rocks. Artificial turf with toxic amounts of lead has also been discontinued by turf manufacturers. We’ll discuss these more in-depth in the later paragraphs.

 

What’s important now is that you know that generally, the artificial grass blades are safe for your kids. You can definitely have artificial turf at home without crumb rubber endangering your lives. However, there is some low-quality turf grass out there. We don’t know what they’re made of, and we can’t vouch for them either. If you want to be sure that your kids are safe, go for manufacturers that pride themselves for being non-toxic and lead- free.

 

Fortunately, there are brands that go above and beyond the general rule. By offering non-toxic, lead-free, toxin-free artificial grass, MegaGrass ensures not only your kids’ safety.

 

But yours as well.

 

Is Artificial Turf Safe for Pets?

 

Our furbabies aren’t so different from our tiny humans, are they? They’re all whiney poop machines who are constantly hungry for food and attention. But we love them all the same. If we could give them everything, we would. This is why we’re looking for answers. We wanna know that an investment as big as artificial turf won’t be any harm to them. And hopefully, they’ll benefit from it as much as we will.

 

The major health concern about synthetic grass of the past is lead exposure. Thankfully, in 2008, the Center for Environmental Health (CEH) and major turf makers agreed to ensure artificial turf safety by freeing it from lead.

 

Another safety concern with artificial grass is the tripping hazard on uneven surfaces. This is also a problem with natural grass because you won’t be able to see uneven surfaces in a manicured lawn. The best thing about artificial turf is that if it is installed by a professional, you don’t need to worry about stumbling. You can be ~trippin’~ on your lawn instead.

 

Does artificial turf cause cancer?

Studies show no conclusive evidence linking fake grass to cancer. But why is there even such a discussion? What led people to believe that artificial grass can cause cancer?

 

Amy Griffin, associate head coach at the University of Washington, has worked with students for 24 years. In her speech, she described her experience with students and artificial turf.

 

She made a list of athletes who were diagnosed of cancer, and as of February 2019, that list has 260 names. 119 of them are goalkeepers. She says that since the beginning, goalies were always at 59-61% of the victims. It is thought that because goalkeepers are more in contact with the grass (they dive and slam their bodies on the turf) they are more prone to cancer.

 

Griffin acknowledges that “correlation is different from causation.” But, according to her list, the incidents of cancer rose as more playing fields of natural grass were changed to artificial turf fields (with crumb rubber infill.) This is the same rubber from the ground up recycled tires.

 

Griffin says that the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) is in charge of keeping residents of the United States safe from environmental factors. They’re the ones who said that rubber tires are toxic. People can’t throw them out, can’t bury them, can’t burn them either. It’s illegal.

 

The government taxed the tires so it can afford to safely collect them. They have to get the tires out of the environment to make sure that people won’t do anything stupid with them. But it soon became a problem for the places collecting these tires. They became overflowing with the stuff. They had no place to put the unsafe, toxic, dangerous wheels. They ended up sponsoring the growth of crumb rubber to solve the waste problem. The government subsidized communities using crumb rubber fields.

 

In 2014, the state of California used $6.1 million to “help” parks and recreational facilities using these crumb rubbers. It allegedly helped both their waste problem and the community. Or so they thought. They ground up recycled tires and broke them into millions of pieces, introduced them into our communities so the kids can play on trash

 

She continues to discuss the RCRA law (The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act.) It is the law in charge of reducing the amount of waste generated and waste management. This law regulates toxic waste, but not its by-products. In turning tires into crumb rubber, different regulations apply.

 

Unfortunately, since these crumb rubbers when used as infill, get carried by waters to rivers, lakes, and coasts. They disappear into waterways, thus their disposal is not regulated. Not to mention the fact that these are so small that gushes of wind can definitely take portions of them. They get taken into the air—breathable by any human being in need of oxygen.

 

Don’t take their disposal into waterways lightly though! These crumb rubbers easily fit into mouths of fishes (that’s right! Fishes that we, human beings, eat!) and can potentially poison their aquatic environments. This poses a threat to all of us because if the water that we use every day is contaminated with toxic substances, we can definitely get sick. It may not always be cancer, but anything we do to plague the environment will definitely haunt us in some way.

 

What does crumb rubber infill have to do with cancer?

Hypothetically, these tiny pieces of rubber float in the air when the playing field is used by athletes. Much like dust resting on a book when you tap its cover, the dust spews into the air and into your lungs. Imagine a goalie diving to block a shot, rubber infill from underneath goes up in the air and into his face. He ingests them, or they stick to his skin. Since the rubbers are made from toxic materials, they negatively affect students and players on the field. No studies are yet to conclude this hypothesis. It’s only just that.

 

However, there’s also this:

 

 Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5615587/

 

PAH = polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. This is a group of chemicals that occur naturally in coal, crude oil, and gasoline.

 

According to this, tire playgrounds and pavers have high levels of several toxic chemicals found in the recycled materials. Crumb rubber in synthetic turf fields continuously releases significant toxic equivalents from evaporation. In 2017, House Bill 6998 attempted to prohibit the installation of ground cover with shredded or ground rubber. Westport, Connecticut passed an ordinance prohibiting the use of synthetic infills on playing fields of town property. This was passed in late 2018.

 

So why even risk it? You’re going to invest in your family time, picnics, and weekend activities. There’s no reason compelling enough for you to choose a known cesspool of toxic materials like crumbed rubber tires to lie on. Choose better materials, like quartz, sands and broken down stones.

 

So why even risk it? You’re going to invest in your family time, picnics, and weekend activities. There’s no reason compelling enough for you to choose a known cesspool of toxic materials like crumbed rubber tires to lie on. Choose better materials, like quartz, sands and broken down stones.

 

Why is synthetic grass a cancer risk?

It’s not! If anything, the recycled tire rubbers being used for infill are the main suspects. Tires come from a mix of synthetic and natural rubber, carbon black (a petroleum-based material) and 4-10 gallons of petroleum products. Metals like cadmium, lead (neurotoxic! It’s harmful to your brain!) and zinc are also present. Some chemicals like dibenzopyrenes are also known carcinogens.

 

Even the chemicals the tires are exposed to during its life can also have a hand in its toxicity. 11 out of 92 chemicals found within crumb rubber have been identified as known or suspected carcinogens. Having this in your yard is a sure fire way to poison yourself. The good news is: infill is completely separable from synthetic grass! You can choose sand and broken down rocks instead!

 

So, is artificial grass toxic?

Generally, no. But of course, there is subpar quality synthetic grass in the market. These are dangerous! Fake grass is something you should get as far away from as you can! These can have amounts of toxins and lead. And since they’re fake, you have no guarantee that they weren’t made out of poisonous substances.

 

Are there synthetic grass in the market which are perfectly safe for you and your family?

 

Why yes, of course! You can do away with crumb rubber infill. You can drop unnecessary risks. Go for natural alternatives!

 

What is the best artificial grass for kids and pets?

MegaGrass offers toxin and lead-free products! Plus, it’s eco-friendly too! We don’t offer crumb rubber as infill; we go with sand and stone, which are all natural and already in the environment! Even if our infill gets blown away by harsh winds. Or driven by running water. You can sleep at night knowing that everything is okay for both your family and the world!

source https://megagrass.com/blogs/news/is-artificial-turf-safe

Quilty Pleasure: Your Ultimate Guide to a DIY Grass Tile Quilt

Quilts are always lovely to have. They’re beautiful, useful, and boy, what joy they are to make! Traditionally, they have been used as decoration for celebrations of births, marriages, despedidas, and even graduations. Nowadays though, they are used for more unconventional purposes.

 

More modern quilts aren’t intended for use as beddings anymore. They are slowly gaining popularity as great alternatives to table runners, tablecloths, or wall decors. Countless shows and quilt-making competitions are now being regularly held regionally, locally, and even nationally.

 

Additionally, quilts may be used for campaigning, artistic expression, as a form of commemoration, a personalized gift, or a means to raise funds. Sometimes, it can also be used for a purpose you probably have never heard of. For instance, did you know that you can actually put a twist on quilts and apply it to landscaping?

 

Of course, you will not be using actual fabric. Instead, you are going to substitute patches of cloth with panels of artificial grass. Sure, the process may be a lot different from quilting, but it essentially uses the same concept.

 

 

Presenting… The Synthetic Grass Quilt

You can try recreating this beautiful look at home with artificial grass of your choice. The steps are pretty much the same as when making a fabric quilt, with very few differences here and there. We enumerate them below for your reference.

 

1. Choose a pattern 

All works of art revolve around a concept and making fake grass quilts is no exception. From that concept, you can envision and sketch out how you would want your project to look like. A pattern put on paper will be easier to plan and work with.

 

2. Gather your tools and materials 

We can’t emphasize enough how using high-quality artificial grass can make or break this project, so make sure you go to a reputable synthetic grass manufacturer, like MegaGrass. Make sure you have all the tools and materials you need to be able to complete the project. Of course, the accessories you need depends on various factors such as the size of the space and the design you have in mind. If you are unsure which items are must-haves or not, you can always talk to online landscaping consultants for guidance.

 

3. Cut the grass panels

Accurately putting together the grass panels requires precise cutting. There are a lot of online resources on how to cut grass panels that you can use. The key is to never rush and cut a little at a time to make room for adjustments or errors.

 

4. Assemble the artificial grass quilt

Depending on the surface you’ll be installing on, you may need to use adhesives or nails and staples. Assemble your fake grass based on the design you chose and make sure that the panels are properly secured. Make sure to measure correctly so that you can replicate your pattern accurately.

 

5. Enjoy your grass tile quilt!

Time to invite your buddies over and enjoy watching them as they marvel at your jaw dropping landscaping project.

 

With a design as wonderful as this, we’re pretty sure you’ll be hosting more parties in no time. It’s amazing how a simple concept can be reused and applied to a different medium with the same outstanding results. Want to know how else you can use fake grass in your home? Click here for more inspiring home improvement ideas.

source https://megagrass.com/blogs/news/diy-grass-tiles-like-a-quilt

Clean and Green: 10 Secrets to a Longer and Healthier Life

Age is but a number, or so the saying goes. For some, their chronological age accurately reflects their biological age -- sometimes a little too accurately. This is the exact reason people keep wondering if a real-life fountain of youth will ever be found, so they can slow the aging process and have more time in their hands to work on their dreams and goals.

 

But how exactly does one get that guarantee? There is no one definite plan to make sure we achieve that goal, but we can always try. On this post, we list down 10 secrets (call it pointers if you will) to a longer and healthier life. Feel free to follow them to achieve a better quality of life.

 

1. Slow aging at the cellular level

 

When you age, your DNA changes, making you less resistant to various illnesses and diseases. Studies show that significant lifestyle changes can help protect your DNA and make them more resistant to these conditions. The more you take care of your body as a whole, the more you strengthen it against the many risks in the environment.

 

2. Make friends

 

Studies show that social ties such as the ones you have with your friends can actually help you live a longer life. But don’t be mistaken, we’re not talking about casual friends or colleagues here. We’re talking about real friends that you have deep connections with. This is because the more you see people who are genuinely concern about your well-being, the more likely you are to take better care of your own health.

 

3. Quit smoking

 

This recent 50-year British study has shown how quitting the habit at around age 30 can substantially add to your life expectancy by up to an entire decade. Kicking the habit at age 40, 50, or 60, on the other hand, can add 9, 6, or 3 years to your life respectively. So stub that stick out now and reconsider the many years you’re exchanging for a few puffs of smoke.

 

4. Follow a Mediterranean Diet

 

A traditional Mediterranean diet is typically abundant in vegetables, fruits, olive oil, fish, and the occasional modest serving of meat. This type of diet pretty much covers all your basic dietary needs and can help prevent obesity, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, diabetes, heart disease, and more.

 

5. Lose Weight

 

Getting rid of excess weight can help lower your chances of getting diabetes, heart disease, and other debilitating conditions that can take years off your life. Being mindful of your diet and adding some physically challenging activities to your routine can help you achieve this easily.

 

6. Forgive

 

Chronic anger is believed to be linked to various health issues. You might be surprised to learn that being able to let go of grudges can reduce your anxiety, lower your blood pressure, and lessen your chances of developing heart disease.

 

7. Prioritize more Sleep

 

Enough sleep will not only help you recover from illness faster, it will also greatly lower your risk of getting sick and developing mood disorders. Sleeping for less than 5 hours each night significantly decreases your life expectancy, so make sleep a priority.

 

8. Manage Stress

 

Stress is something that you’ll never be able to completely avoid, but there are many ways you can manage it. You can try to meditate, do yoga, or some deep breathing exercises at home. A few minutes a day can do a whole lot of difference when it comes to how you respond to stress. And remember, it’s not the stress that kills us, it’s our reaction to it.

 

9. Keep a sense of purpose

 

Having a sense of purpose keeps you active and on the move. The more active your lifestyle, the better your health is. Keeping your mind sharp can also help minimize your risk of memory gaps and losses.

 

10. Spend time outdoors

 

Fresh air cleans your lungs, gives you energy, and keeps your mind sharp. Spending time outdoors also allows you to soak up the sun. If you live in a highly urbanized neighborhood with very limited access to natural greeneries, you can always turn to eco-friendly landscaping to achieve the same feel or experience.

 

One great idea you can use is to create a backyard fitness trail or exercise station where you can brisk walk, jog a little, or use your home fitness equipment. Install quality synthetic grass where you can meditate or do yoga on. There are a lot of ways you can get the same outdoor experience even with limited resources.

 

Key Takeaway

 

A longer and healthier life isn’t difficult to achieve. The key to your success can be summed up in a single concept, and that is self-love. The kinder you are to your mind, body, and soul, the longer it will work without issues. So do whatever it takes to get all the care you need and always remember that you can never, ever love yourself too much.

source https://megagrass.com/blogs/news/secrets-to-a-healthier-life

Roll and Go: The Best Roll Out Grass Ready Surfaces

Although more commonly used for covering lawns, artificial grass can actually be used in several other ways. If you want unique decorating ideas, you can always experiment and try applying synthetic grass to a large variety of surfaces. Function wise, excess cuts of fake grass can be used for covering benches, forming boundaries around landscaped areas, or creating pathways in large spaces.

 

Our list below demonstrates just how flexible artificial grass rolls can be, and which surfaces they can best work with.

 

Soil

Traditional and easy

 

Artificial grass carpet rolls are specially designed for use as lawns, dog runs, recreational areas, and putting greens. As such, it is ideally placed on properly prepared soil. The great thing about this application is that even though extensive planning is required to level the ground and put the whole drainage system together, it will work well with most types of soil.

 

Wood

Looks polished but requires maintenance

 

Synthetic turf rolls can also be placed over various wood surfaces. If you have a wooden deck, patio, bench, or plant rack, then this application will also work for you. To prevent the wood from rotting, make sure you cover and seal the wood so it becomes aptly water-resistant. Additionally, you may opt to use a mild adhesive to keep the waterproof barrier in place.

 

Cement

Rough, rugged, and turf ready

 

Artificial grass can be installed on swimming pool surrounds and cement patios, and because of the nature of the material, you can easily cut your grass panels to any size or shape, and have it stay in place without using copious amounts of adhesive. If your desired grass area will be used for rough play of children or pets, you will best benefit from more durable types of grass, or simply invest in some quality shock pads for your turf.  

 

Plastic

Flexible and easy to shape

 

Small cuts of fake grass make great decorative pieces for homes. They can be glued to make centerpieces, glass coasters, outdoor tables, and more. A small amount of adhesive can go a long way, as synthetic turf can be attached firmly to plastic surfaces without fear of it slipping off or sliding while in use. With the proper tools, fake grass can actually be used just like any fabric utilized in various craft projects.

 

Brick

Uneven but solid foundation

 

Fake grass can also be installed under brick. If the surface seems uneven in any way, you may use a thin pad to protect the turf from wear and tear. Installation on paver or brick surfaces may be trickier, but the use of simple adhesive strips to secure the surface should suffice.

 

Artificial grass can be installed on a large number of surfaces. Quality artificial turf can withstand even the most stressful circumstances. So when choosing a supplier, go for the one with a solid reputation and with impressive reviews from actual product users. MegaGrass is an industry-leading manufacturer of synthetic grass and other eco-friendly landscaping solutions. For more sustainable home improvement options, visit megagrass.com today.

source https://megagrass.com/blogs/news/best-roll-out-grass-ready-surface