PFAS-coated clothes that are thrown away will often end up either incinerated or in landfill. Unless incinerated at very high temperatures (>1000oC), fluorinated polymers could release more harmful PFAS during burning. PFAS of environmental concern have also been found in landfill leachate. PFAS is found in treated waste water from industrial and domestic sources and has been found in both rivers and groundwater. Conventional drinking water processes will not remove PFAS.Small quantities of PFAS will be removed during wash and wear of products containing PFAS. This includes fluorinated polymers used on stain-resistant coatings, and non-polymers that remain on clothes after production (Lassen et al. 2015).Non-polymer PFAS can build up in blood protein of animals, and is not always removed quickly. This means that predators eating PFAS-contaminated food will have higher levels in their bloodstream, and concentrations can increase up the food chain. Studies suggest that build up of PFAS is similar to those of other Persistent Organic Pollutants such as DDT.PFAS are estimated to be settling in arctic regions at rates of tens to hundreds of kilograms per year (25-850kg per year), depending on the specific PFAS chemical in question. Certain PFAS are released as gases to the environment and are blown a long way by wind and air currents in the atmosphere,. These gas PFAS will over time degrade to more persistent chemicals like PFOS and PFOA. This may be one reason why PFAS of environmental concern have been found in remote regions such as the Arctic as well as near PFAS production sitesPFAS including PFOS and PFOA have been found in air samples around Europe. The chemicals are found in small quantities, but appear in almost all samples tested. PFAS enters the atmosphere both from factories and the air inside our homes. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17554424 Non-polymer PFAS are used in the production of fluorinated polymers. The manufacture of stain-resistant finishes generally releases these PFASs into the environment, both by air and water emissions. They are very hard to remove during water treatment. Workers in textiles factories are some of the population most exposed to these potentially harmful chemicals.
Project Paused

Together we can work towards microplastic-free pitches.

Everyone, from pitch designers to football clubs, schools to local authorities, can Pitch In to tackle microplastic loss from 3G pitches.

I use sports pitches…

We’re looking for teammates to help Pitch In and tackle microplastic pollution from pitches.

Kick off by signing our Pitch In Pledge. Then check out our resources and activities for more ideas on how to get involved.

Explore the Pitch In community kit

I’m involved in providing or managing pitches…

Decisions can be made at every stage of pitch design, construction and management to minimise microplastic pollution. Whether you are involved in construction of 3G pitches, work for a local authority or have responsibility for a pitch in your local community; you can make a difference.

We have a range of practical resources for the 3G pitch industry and decision-makers to help you microplastic pollution.

Check out our cleaner pitch guidance and be part of positive industry action.

Visit our industry action page

Pitch In Map

Have you done something to help combat microplastic pollution from your local 3G pitch? Let us know!

Add your details to our Pitch In map to share with the wider Pitch In community and help us promote your efforts. This interactive map shows the businesses, clubs, community groups, schools and individuals who are taking part in our project to tackle microplastic lost from pitches.

Why not click on an icon to find out what has already been achieved?