#United States #San Diego #TenCate #Pivot Performance #Sustainable Turf

A Shift in Athletic Field Design: The Move Towards Non-Infill Turf

As universities and recreational facilities prioritize sustainability and efficient maintenance, the traditional infilled synthetic turf systems are under scrutiny for their operational challenges. With increasing pressure to enhance environmental outcomes, these facilities are exploring innovative solutions that could redefine athletic field construction.

At San Diego State University, an important decision was made to replace an existing traditional turf system with Pivot® Performance Turf by TenCate. This new system, which eliminates the need for conventional infill materials such as sand and crumb rubber, is gaining traction among recreation operators concerned about durability, maintenance, and sustainability.

The Challenges with Traditional Infilled Systems

Maintaining traditional synthetic turf systems can be particularly labor-intensive, especially in recreational and intramural settings where fields are heavily utilized. Infill materials often shift under constant foot traffic, necessitating frequent redistribution and replenishment, which not only disrupts play but also incurs additional costs and resources.

Moreover, as institutions become increasingly aware of their environmental responsibilities, they are scrutinizing the entire lifecycle of sports surfaces—from production processes to end-of-life recovery. This comprehensive evaluation led the Associated Students (A.S.) at San Diego State University to choose Pivot® Performance Turf, which aligns with their operational needs and sustainability goals.

Pivot® Performance Turf: A Game Changer

Unlike conventional options reliant on rubber or sand infill, Pivot® is engineered to perform effectively without these materials. This innovative design maintains essential playing characteristics, allowing for the same recreational use but with drastically reduced maintenance requirements. By removing the complications associated with infill, Pivot® presents a new model of synthetic turf that balances performance with sustainability.

A core benefit for A.S. is that Pivot® not only simplifies maintenance tasks but also addresses environmental concerns. The turf system is designed without added PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) and primary microplastics, areas of growing concern in environmental discussions.

The consideration of end-of-life recyclability for the Pivot® system also aligns with A.S.'s commitment to sustainable practices, positioning it as a forward-thinking choice for campuses looking to invest wisely in their infrastructure.

A Broader Trend in Facility Management

The trend seen at San Diego State University is reflective of a larger movement among recreation facilities seeking alternatives to traditional turf options. As operators increasingly prioritize sustainability, tools like Pivot® are emerging as viable alternatives, each contributing to more resilient athletic solutions. Reallocating resources for field management and maintenance is becoming simpler, and as a result, facilities may preserve their turf infrastructure for longer periods.

In the words of Reginald Cabanilla, A.S. Director of Facilities and Sustainability, "Sustainability is a core value for A.S., and it was an important consideration throughout this project. Pivot offered an opportunity to reduce dependence on traditional infill materials while supporting our environmental goals."

As institutions continue to explore and implement these innovative solutions, their approach to athletic fields could significantly reduce reliance on traditional synthetic turf systems, showcasing a commitment to sustainable practices while enhancing the experience of athletes and recreational users alike. With more organizations opting for infill-free systems, the future of athletic fields looks promising.