A Leicestershire-based sports and play surfacing company has announced the launch of the world’s first non-plastic artificial turf, designed to provide a sustainable alternative for playgrounds and recreational spaces.
Notts Sport, a leading innovator in play and sports surfaces, has developed CocoTurf, an artificial grass alternative made entirely from natural coconut fibres. Unlike conventional synthetic turfs that rely on plastic components, CocoTurf contains zero plastics, zero microplastics, and no PFAS chemicals, addressing growing concerns over environmental impact and safety.
A Sustainable Alternative to Synthetic Turf
Traditional artificial grass has long been criticised for its reliance on petroleum-based plastics, which contribute to microplastic pollution and long-term waste. CocoTurf offers an alternative, using natural coconut husks to create a durable yet eco-friendly surface.
A single coconut produces around 200 grams of usable fibre, and approximately 600 coconuts can provide enough material to cover a 60-square-metre playground. The turf is reinforced with a specialist plant-based and certified natural rubber latex backing, making it a 100% plastic-free solution.
The innovation marks a significant shift in the artificial turf industry, which has struggled to balance performance with sustainability. According to Duncan Bennett, CEO of Notts Sport, CocoTurf represents a “milestone in the evolution of outdoor play surfaces.”
“Our drive to find ever more sustainable surfacing solutions has led us to invent the world’s first non-plastic synthetic grass – CocoTurf,” he said. “For the first time, communities can install an artificial surface without the harmful impact of plastics. This is the future of play surfaces, and we’re thrilled to lead the charge.”
Designed for High-Traffic Play Areas
CocoTurf has been developed to withstand high foot traffic, making it suitable for schools, parks, and public play areas. While natural grass requires ongoing maintenance and struggles to remain in good condition in busy areas, CocoTurf provides a low-maintenance, durable alternative with an eco-friendly design.
The product launch comes at a time of increasing scrutiny over plastic waste, with local councils and environmental groups calling for more sustainable infrastructure in public spaces. The use of non-toxic, biodegradable materials also addresses concerns about child safety and environmental pollution caused by conventional synthetic turf.
Industry Impact and Future Prospects
The development of CocoTurf is expected to prompt further discussions around sustainable alternatives in the sports and play sector. Notts Sport hopes the innovation will set a new standard for artificial surfaces, offering an option that is both practical and environmentally responsible.
As demand for plastic-free solutions grows, the company is positioning itself at the forefront of eco-conscious play surfacing, with potential applications beyond playgrounds, including sports facilities and landscaping projects.
With increasing pressure to reduce plastic waste and adopt sustainable urban solutions, CocoTurf could mark a turning point for the industry—bringing natural materials into a market long dominated by synthetic alternatives.
