Queen’s University is set to become the first post-secondary institution in North America to install carbon-sequestering field turf, as part of the revitalisation project for Nixon Field.

The project will use enhanced rock weathering (ERW) as a base beneath the new turf field. ERW is a nature-based process that accelerates the natural weathering of rocks. The technology will help remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and help address climate change by sequestering the carbon equivalent of 165 tree seedlings grown over 10 years, or close to 7,000 sqm of forest annually.

“With thousands of students using Nixon Field to play, compete, and engage in co-curricular activities, creating a space that contributes to environmental sustainability is in line with the strategic objectives of the university and the City of Kingston,” says Queen’s Athletics and Recreation Executive Director Linda Melnick. “By partnering with Kingston-based Canadian Wollastonite and FieldTurf, an industry leader, to establish a North American first, we are furthering the university and broader community’s commitment to sustainability. Replacing the Nixon Field playing surface aligns with A&R’s commitment to continual improvement and work towards the department’s vision, ‘where active pursuits become golden moments.’”

No significant extra costs

According to FieldTurf, the use of ERW does not alter the price for a new subbase for a synthetic turf surface significantly. “Every project is unique, as location and specifications adjust the project cost. But no, using ERW does not come at a significant cost,” a FieldTurf spokesperson told Sportsfields.info.

In some countries in Europe, olivine is used for a similar reason. This olive-green, grey-green or brown mineral occurs widely in basalt, peridotite, and other basic igneous rocks. It is a silicate containing varying proportions of magnesium, iron, and other elements.

While this all sounds positive, the use of olivine is not permitted in the Netherlands, as the Dutch authorities fear a possible contamination with sulphur used in the blasting to extract the mineral.

Nixon Field provides over 1,500 hours of student physical activity every year and is home to a highly successful women’s rugby team. The project is expected to be finished in spring next year.