RESEARCHING SUSTAINABLE SPORTS FACILITIES
This research will look to build an objective, evidence base to understand the efficacy of risk management measures, to test new design principles and to share best practice for artificial grass pitch sites.
Our approach
Project Introduction
This project will assess the effectiveness of risk management measures (RMM) in reducing the migration of infill from third generation (3G) sports fields. This follows a number of studies that have been commissioned to understand the efficacy of RMM across Europe and in the US.
We will share our methodology, data, assumptions, caveats and findings on this website and through publicly available reports.
The research has been commissioned by Sport England and the Football Foundation.
Research
method
method
The two-year project is being conducted across eight 3G astro turf pitches (two multi-use sites, six football) located across six sites in England. This makes this the biggest study of its kind. Four of the pitches have RMM in place, four do not have RMM in place. This will enable us to compare RMM and site designs in a range of contexts.
For this research, RMM are defined as being in place if the pitch was built to meet the FCEN/TR17519 standard. Using multiple pitches will enable us to understand the impact of RMM in a range of different contexts.
We are using a mixed methods approach to capture data and insight from these three sources of infill migration.
Results and Reports
The project fieldwork began in June 2024 and the fieldwork researchers are sampling data every quarter across the sites. As our research progresses, and we build a meaningful picture from the data we will share our findings and updates on our results page.
Our interim findings are shared on our Reports page that will be updated across the project.
To learn more about our methodology, or if you would like to receive updates when we are sharing our findings please contact: info@rmmresearch.co.uk or sign up to on the website.
About the researchers
The Behaviouralist (TB) are leading the project and are responsible for the player behaviour research, the project delivery and reporting.
The British Association of Sustainability in Sport (BASIS) provide expertise in sustainability and independent quality assurance of the research and our approach.
Sports Labs provide technical expertise on artificial pitches site design and maintenance. They will lead on the research design, project management and delivery of the field research.
Passport365 provide the data reporting platform and communications support for the project and any deliverables. Helping to communicate the findings clearly and ensure they are actionable.