There are many reasons to be concerned about the surfaces schools, park boards and others put in and on public play spaces. As these surfaces have transitioned from natural materials like wood chips, sand, and grass, habitats for pollinators, soil-builders, birds, and other creatures are degraded. Because these manufactured surfaces retain heat, in hot weather, temperatures soar and may be dangerous for animals and humans. The chemicals in the recycled tires and other manufactured products that make up these materials may be toxic, especially if they are breathed in, come into contact with skin, or are ingested.
Our group formed when parents started complaining about their children coming home from school with black stains on their clothes and bodies and rubber chips in their cuffs and hair.
As we looked at available research, we learned that some of these materials were being removed and banned for environmental and health concerns. Manufacturers assure safety, but scientific research raises concerns. As a grassroots, no-budget group, how could we know for sure?
When the opportunity came up to apply for help from a program that pairs scientists with public environmental health and safety research projects, we applied.
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