Over 100 scientific studies and proven real-world performance data demonstrate that surfaces using recycled rubber infill offer a breakthrough in public infrastructure—providing reliable, cost-effective solutions that benefit both people and the environment.
From playgrounds to athletic facilities, the science and data demonstrate that these materials deliver safety, durability, and year-round accessibility. Myths and misconceptions that have circulated should not prevent communities from improving everyday experiences for its members while addressing pressing ongoing environmental challenges. Here are the facts about recycled rubber.
Myth: Recycled rubber poses health risks
Fact: Peer-reviewed scientific research makes clear that surfaces with recycled rubber infill are safe.
The EPA's landmark 2024 study found identical chemical exposure levels between synthetic turf with recycled rubber infill and natural grass fields (EPA Report, 2024).
Additional key findings:
- Over 110 scientific studies, including peer-reviewed academic analyses and federal and state government reports, confirm no significant health risks (EPA Report, 2024)
- The European Chemicals Agency's comprehensive assessment determined recycled rubber "causes a very low level of concern," with PAH levels "normally well below" EU safety limits (ECHA Report, 2017)
- The Netherlands National Institute for Public Health concluded health risks are "virtually negligible" after extensive field testing (Dutch Study, 2016)
- Washington State Department of Health research definitively disproved claims linking synthetic turf to cancer, finding lower rates compared to peer groups (WA DOH Study, 2017)
THE BOTTOM LINE: The safety of recycled rubber has been clearly established, with health risks demonstrated to be similar to grass.
Myth: The science remains uncertain
FACT: Extensive scientific research validates safety and performance.
- Over 100 peer-reviewed studies confirm safety (EPA Report, 2024)
- Multiple government agencies independently verify performance (EPA Report, 2024)
- Long-term field studies demonstrate sustained effectiveness (USTMA, 2021)
- Regular testing confirms continued compliance with standards (Technical Report, 2025)
- International research consensus supports safety conclusions (ECHA Report, 2017)
THE BOTTOM LINE: The safety and effectiveness of recycled rubber-infused surfaces is supported by overwhelming scientific evidence.
Myth: Natural surfaces are more cost-effective
Fact: Cost analysis data proves recycled rubber delivers superior long-term value.
- Synthetic turf fields are 3x less expensive to use — costing $42 per hour of use versus $102-140 for grass (Field Cost Comparison Guide, 2025)
- Playground surfaces that use recycled rubber save $20,000 over 15 years compared to wood chips (Playground Cost Comparison Guide, 2025)
- Maintenance costs are 75% lower than grass fields (RRC Economic Analysis, 2022)
- Fields achieve 10x higher utilization rates than grass (USTMA, 2021)
- Each field saves over 50,000 gallons of water weekly by eliminating irrigation needs (Field Cost Comparison Guide, 2025)
THE BOTTOM LINE: Recycled rubber-infused surfaces deliver significant cost savings while providing dramatically more hours of community use.
Myth: The recycling process alters rubber chemistry
FACT: The recycling process is mechanical, involving only physical changes.
- No chemical changes occur during processing (Technical Report, 2025)
- Material undergoes either ambient shredding using interlocking knives or cryogenic processing using liquid nitrogen (RRC FAQ, 2025)
- Steel and other components are mechanically separated for separate recycling streams (Technical Report, 2025)
- Final material maintains original rubber characteristics and properties (Technical Report, 2025)
THE BOTTOM LINE: The recycling process preserves the original rubber's beneficial properties while giving it new life as a community resource.
Myth: Natural surfaces provide better safety
FACT: Safety testing demonstrates that surfaces using recycled rubber infill provide better protection.
- 2.25x safer fall protection compared to traditional surfaces (RRC Data, 2025)
- Consistent shock absorption exceeds international safety standards (Technical Report, 2025)
- Superior slip resistance in wet conditions (Technical Report, 2025)
- Eliminates displacement and degradation issues common with loose-fill materials (Playground Cost Comparison Guide, 2025)
- Meets all ASTM and EN safety standards for athletic and playground surfaces
THE BOTTOM LINE: Recycled rubber-infused surfaces provide consistently superior safety protection that outperforms alternatives.
Myth: Recycled rubber is unstable and deteriorates
Fact: Independent laboratory testing confirms recycled rubber maintains structural integrity and performance over decades.
The material exhibits:
- Stays in place better long-term compared to alternative materials (Technical Report, 2025)
- Proven durability in extreme temperatures and environmental conditions
- Consistent performance under 12.5 million load cycles with only 10% stiffening, well below the 15-20% international standard (Technical Report, 2025)
- No significant degradation in hundreds of active installations dating to the 1990s (USTMA, 2021)
THE BOTTOM LINE: Recycled rubber-infused surfaces maintain their performance for decades, offering superior durability compared to alternatives.
Myth: Water and chemicals degrade the material
FACT: Laboratory testing confirms exceptional environmental resistance.
- 100% water permeability prevents surface pooling (Technical Report, 2025)
- Maintains structural integrity and performance when wet (Technical Report, 2025)
- Resists chemicals from pH 3-12 (Technical Report, 2025)
- No significant stiffening or performance loss from moisture exposure (Technical Report, 2025)
- Preserves underlying drainage systems (Technical Report, 2025)
THE BOTTOM LINE: Recycled rubber-infused surfaces maintain their performance in weather conditions, providing year-round availability for communities.
Myth: Manufacturing quality varies significantly
FACT: Production follows rigorous quality control protocols.
- Precise particle size distribution requirements (Technical Report, 2025)
- Controlled temperature and humidity during manufacturing (Technical Report, 2025)
- Regular testing throughout production process (Technical Report, 2025)
- Third-party verification of quality standards (Technical Report, 2025)
- Consistent performance across global installations (USTMA, 2021)
THE BOTTOM LINE: Strict quality controls ensure that surfaces using recycled rubber deliver reliable, consistent performance.
Myth: Metal content exceeds safety standards
FACT: Independent testing confirms metal levels are safe.
- EPA testing shows metal concentrations match or fall below natural soil levels (EPA Report, 2024)
- All materials comply with strict EU REACH chemical restrictions (ECHA Report, 2017)
- No significant metal leaching in environmental studies (EPA Report, 2024)
- Regular testing confirms continued compliance with international standards
- Background exposure levels typically exceed any material contribution (EPA Report, 2024)
THE BOTTOM LINE: Metal content in surfaces that use recycled rubber is consistently below environmental background levels and safety thresholds.
Myth: Industry growth is declining
FACT: Market data proves continued use and growing demand.
- Over 220 million tires recycled annually (USTMA, 2021)
- 95% industry recycling rate achieved (RRC Economic Analysis, 2022)
- $2.47 billion annual economic impact (ISRI Report, 2019)
- 8,500+ direct and indirect jobs supported (RRC Economic Analysis, 2022)
- Growing adoption by major facilities and urban communities worldwide (USTMA, 2021)
THE BOTTOM LINE: The recycled rubber industry continues to grow, creating jobs while providing communities with sustainable recreation solutions.
