UV-Resistant PLA Artificial Turf

Researcher & Developer

Artificial turf is often presented as a practical alternative to natural grass, yet its environmental costs are easy to overlook. This research began by questioning whether the material itself could be reconsidered — particularly the plastics that contribute to microplastic pollution and heat retention over time.

I focused on PLA as a biodegradable alternative and explored how material choice, blade structure, and durability could work together in a more sustainable turf system. Rather than treating sustainability as a trade-off, the project asked whether artificial turf could retain the qualities needed for outdoor use while reducing its environmental footprint.