ONE-DNA™️ is proud to collaborate with the Dutch working group initiated by NOC*NSF (Dutch Olympic Committee * Dutch Sports Federation is the umbrella organisation for sport in the Netherlands) to develop an independent sustainability label for artificial turf sports floors. This initiative is crucial for making the artificial turf industry more sustainable and provides transparent and verified information to municipalities, contractors, and architects, enabling them to make sustainable choices in the construction of sports fields.
A Step Forward in Sustainability
The demand for sustainability in sports infrastructure is growing louder, both from society and the market. Artificial turf fields have been under scrutiny for environmental challenges such as the use of polymeric infill and the spread of microplastics. The new sustainability label will address these challenges by objectively assessing products based on their environmental impact.
The sustainability label, tested using the PEFCR method (Product Environmental Footprint Category Rules), makes the environmental impact of artificial turf products transparent and comparable. This label classifies artificial turf products based on their environmental performance, similar to energy labels from A to G. It helps Dutch municipalities enrich their procurement processes starting in 2026 with a clear and reliable foundation for sustainable tenders.
ONE-DNA™️’s Contribution to Sustainability
With a focus on developing fully recyclable artificial turf systems and emphasizing transparency, ONE-DNA™️ actively contributes to this initiative. By conducting life cycle analyses (LCAs) and creating Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs), the company has made the environmental impact of artificial turf measurable. These efforts enable clients to select products that are both high-quality and environmentally friendly.
The Importance of an Independent Sustainability Label
The sustainability label developed by NOC*NSF is based on the European PEFCR method. This label provides municipalities and other stakeholders with a concrete basis to establish sustainability as a standard in their policies. In addition to environmental impact, the label will be linked to the existing Quality Assurance System, which already focuses on safety and sports performance standards.
By combining this system with the sustainability label, municipalities and other stakeholders gain better insights into the overall value of artificial turf products. This contributes to a broader transition to circular and climate-friendly sports infrastructures.
Collaboration Within the Industry
The development of the label is the result of broad collaboration between industry players, knowledge institutions, and organizations such as the European Synthetic Turf Council (ESTC). This joint approach makes sustainability policies not only concrete but also widely applicable. The label is seen as a first step and serves as an example for other sectors within the sports industry, such as floors for indoor sports facilities.
The involvement of ESTC highlights the importance of a shared vision for sustainability, where knowledge and innovation are exchanged to create a global impact. The Netherlands is regarded as a frontrunner, setting an international benchmark in artificial turf sustainability.
A Future-Oriented Vision
ONE-DNA™️ strongly believes in accelerating the transition towards innovative and circular solutions. The company advocates for discontinuing traditional artificial turf systems that are difficult to recycle and energy-intensive. By participating in this working group and contributing to the development of the sustainability label, ONE-DNA™️ strengthens its commitment to a transparent and responsible market.
Conclusion
The initiative by NOC*NSF to develop an independent sustainability label for artificial turf sports floors marks a significant step towards a more sustainable sports infrastructure. Starting in 2026, municipalities can enhance their procurement processes and contribute to a cleaner environment by making informed choices. ONE-DNA™️ is proud to contribute to this effort and looks forward to a future where artificial turf fields are not only functional but also fully recyclable and environmentally friendly.
By linking the sustainability label to a widely supported quality assurance system and collaborating with other market players, sustainability becomes concrete and accessible. Let us work together to ensure this becomes the standard for all sports products—both in the Netherlands and beyond.
