Artificial grass, once hailed as a low-maintenance garden solution, is now under scrutiny for its potential risks, including heightened flooding and heat risks.
A recent survey by Aviva reveals a striking trend: 21% of UK homeowners have replaced or are considering replacing their natural lawns with artificial turf, up from 18% just a year earlier. Despite its popularity, there’s a significant gap in homeowners’ understanding of the material’s impact on their environment.
Only 32% of those surveyed acknowledge that artificial grass could increase flooding risks, while nearly half believe it has no impact at all. A smaller segment, 9%, even think it could reduce flooding. Jason Storah of Aviva warns against such assumptions, especially as the UK faces more extreme weather conditions due to climate change. He notes that synthetic lawns can impede water absorption, overwhelming urban drainage systems during heavy rains and increasing flood risks.
The Heat Is On
Aside from water woes, artificial turf poses another serious risk during the warmer months. Nat White from Rated People points out that the synthetic material can become dangerously hot, potentially harming children and pets who come into contact with it. This is because artificial turf, made from polyethylene, lacks the natural cooling effect of real grass and is excellent at absorbing and retaining heat.
Environmental Impact and Homeowner Adaptations
The environmental impacts of artificial grass extend beyond heat and water management. Switching from a living lawn to a synthetic one can drastically reduce local biodiversity, affecting everything from soil organisms to larger wildlife that rely on natural grass for their habitat.
Despite these concerns, many homeowners are drawn to artificial grass for its aesthetic consistency and low maintenance requirements. No watering, mowing, or reseeding required—advantages that seem particularly appealing during hosepipe bans and dry spells.
Climate-Ready Garden Alternatives
For those reconsidering the artificial option, Aviva suggests more sustainable landscaping choices:
- Permeable Surfaces: Replacing impermeable surfaces with permeable materials can help manage rainwater more effectively.
- Wildflower Meadows: These not only support local wildlife but also manage water better than artificial alternatives. About 11% of homeowners have adopted this option, with another 13% planning to make the switch.
- Planted Gardens: Integrating more plants, shrubs, and trees can help cool the environment naturally, manage water runoff, and support biodiversity.
The Financial Angle
Cost is another factor to consider. Installing artificial grass isn’t cheap, ranging from £1,200 to £2,500 on average, which is a substantial upfront investment. While it may save on water bills and maintenance costs, the initial financial outlay—and the potential costs of mitigating its environmental impact—could be significant.
The Bottom Line
As the UK grapples with the implications of climate change, the choices homeowners make today could have long-lasting impacts on their environment and personal safety. Artificial grass might seem like a convenient and attractive option, but the potential risks and costs could outweigh the benefits. Homeowners are advised to weigh these factors carefully and consider more sustainable, resilient alternatives to prepare their homes and gardens for an uncertain future.