Norwegian Football President Sounds Alarm About Potential Crisis Over Artificial Pitches

Lisa Klaveness, the President of the Norwegian Football Federation, is becoming increasingly frustrated with the lack of financial support from politicians to facilitate the transition away from rubber granules, which the EU will ban effective 2031 due to environmental concerns.

Starting in 2031, it will be prohibited to buy or sell the rubber granules commonly used on artificial football pitches to mimic natural grass.

This poses a significant challenge for Norway, where approximately 1,800 artificial pitches are in use, particularly as most teams in the Norwegian Eliteserie rely on them.

With just six years to find a viable solution, the urgency for government funding is apparent to ensure a smooth transition.

“Mobilisation is necessary to formulate a new strategy that extends beyond the state budget. A proactive approach is essential to elevate football’s role as a vital public health arena over the next decade. It is at risk,” Klaveness remarks.

The ban on rubber granules stems from a decision by the EU Commission aimed at reducing pollution caused by microplastics.

As reported by the Norwegian news agency NTB, the estimated cost to replace the rubber granules with a more eco-friendly alternative is around 7.35 billion Norwegian kroner (approximately 630 million euros).

“The challenge is considerable. We recognise that rubber granules pose an environmental risk. We support the ban, but it must not compromise the opportunities for children and young people to participate in sport,” Klaveness adds.