P-06-1472 Protect our wildlife...ban plastic grass in Wales! - Correspondence from the Petitioner to the Committee, 03 May 2025

Dear Members of the Petitions committee,

Thank you for the opportunity to respond to the Ministers comments.

The Minister covers the micro plastic issues resulting from the sale of plastic grass but fails to cover the very real threat to biodiversity.

There is nothing sadder than watching a song thrush, bumblebee , butterfly or hedgehog trying to feed from sterile plastic grass.

Natural grass lawns provide food and shelter for a wide variety of insects, small animals, and birds, which contribute to biodiversity. Artificial grass replaces this habitat, reducing or eliminating the resources that these organisms rely on. 

• Impact on Soil:

Artificial grass blocks the natural processes of leaf litter decomposition and nutrient cycling, which are essential for soil health. It also restricts access to water and air, which can harm the soil organisms that rely on these resources. 

• Limited Biodiversity:

Natural grass supports a diverse array of life, including soil microorganisms, insects, and other wildlife. Artificial grass cannot support this same level of biodiversity. 

If the Minister is unwilling to ban plastic grass then at least make companies selling this product Issue a warning to the public about the very real  negative effects that plastic grass does to our Natural world.

Yours sincerely 

Robert Curtis 

Barry Action for Nature