Mizuno installs biodegradable polymer-based artificial turf at Vantelin Dome Nagoya, marking a sustainable first in sports surface innovation.
Kaneka Corporation has announced that biodegradable artificial turf produced using its KANEKA Biodegradable Polymer Green Planet™, developed in collaboration with Mizuno Corporation, has been installed in the warning zone area at Vantelin Dome Nagoya. This deployment represents the first time artificial turf made with Green Planet has been used for this type of application globally.
Green Planet is a fully biomass-derived biodegradable polymer created as an alternative to petroleum-based materials. The material can naturally decompose into carbon dioxide and water through the action of microorganisms found in soil and marine environments, offering a potential solution to the growing challenge of plastic pollution, including microplastics in oceans.
Artificial turf systems can gradually fragment over time, and some particles may enter waterways, contributing to environmental concerns. To help address this issue, Kaneka partnered with Mizuno—known for its expertise in sports surface technologies—to develop biodegradable turf suitable for indoor sports facilities in 2025. The resulting product is designed to provide a feel comparable to conventional turf while maintaining durability and performance standards. More than 90% of the resin used in the turf fibers is derived from biomass, which also helps reduce carbon emissions compared with petroleum-based alternatives.
The installation at Vantelin Dome Nagoya is part of renovation work at the stadium, home to the Chunichi Dragons. The stadium operator selected the biodegradable turf not only for its environmental characteristics but also for its safety, durability, and cushioning performance for athletes.
Kaneka continues to position itself as a global solutions provider, leveraging its polymer and biotechnology capabilities to support sustainable material innovations and expand the adoption of environmentally responsible products such as Green Planet worldwide.
News Courtesy : Renewable Carbon News