Circular investment in sport: the total cost of ownership of artificial grass vs. natural grass
At Namsports, we believe in transparency and objective comparison. That is why we want to clearly outline the total costs and environmental impact of sports pitches.
From purchase costs to lifetime value
A natural grass pitch may seem cheaper to install initially, but it has high maintenance costs:
| Cost item | Natural grass | Artificial grass |
|---|---|---|
| Installation | 💰 | 💰💰💰 |
| Annual maintenance | 💰💰💰 (mowing, fertilising, watering, repairs,...) | 💰 (periodic brushing and cleaning) |
| Playing hours per year | 200-400 hours | 1500 - 2000 hours |
When looking at the TCO over 10 to 15 years, artificial turf appears to be more cost-effective in most cases, with a much higher user intensity.
Lifecycle assessment (LCA): environmental impact over the entire lifespan
A lifecycle assessment evaluates the total environmental impact of a sports field: raw material extraction -> production -> use -> end of life.
At Namsports, we focus on:
- Post-consumer recycled materials (such as granules from old artificial turf pitches and reuse of certain infill)
- Reduced energy consumption in production through new backing systems
- Maximum circularity through separable components (use of 1 polymer material)
Goal: artificial turf pitches that are fully recyclable, from old pitch -> new pitch, without downcycling!
Objective comparison = better policy
By combining environmental costs and total operating costs, a realistic picture of sustainability emerges. Artificial turf scores highly in this regard thanks to:
- Longer service life
- Lower energy and water consumption
- No pesticides or intensive fertilisation
- Significantly reduced maintenance requirements
- Circular material flows possible
In short: higher value creation per euro invested and a significantly lower environmental impact.
A circular sports field is a lasting investment
By choosing circular artificial turf from Namsports, you are investing in:
- User value: more playing hours and a higher social impact
- Environmental value: sustainable raw material cycles
- Economic value: lower TCO and better predictability in management
In this way, your sports facility actively contributes to certain objectives and a healthy living environment.
