Over 200 delegates from around the world visited Porto, as the EMEA Synthetic Turf Council (ESTC) hosted its annual Congress under the theme, “Changing the Narrative”.

The synthetic turf industry is currently embarking on a number of strategic projects aimed at enhancing the important long-term role its products can play in sports and landscaping applications. This provided the perfect backdrop for a record number of industry stakeholders to network, share ideas and discuss best practice at the three-day ESTC Congress.

Over the course of the conference programme, delegates learned all about the latest technical developments, regulatory updates and emerging innovations which will help to shape the future of the synthetic turf industry.

The session exploring the future of the category offered insight into pitch base design and construction best practice and the verification of sports fields projects. Attendees were then given an update on the development and implementation of the industry’s Category Rules under the European Commission’s Product Environmental Footprint (PEF) methodology.

A technical and regulatory update enabled delegates to explore the latest developments concerning EU regulation around the product category as well as taking a closer look at how understanding yarn wear and the significance of proper maintenance regimes can mitigate the environmental impact of synthetic turf.

A session dedicated to landscaping, meanwhile, recognised the challenges and opportunities presented by synthetic turf for landscaping and leisure applications.

Reports from some of sport’s most prominent governing bodies preceded an innovation workshop, where presentations were delivered by member companies on the emerging products, services and technologies set to change the face of the industry over the years to come.

Stefan Diderich, Director General/CEO at ESTC said: “Our annual Congress always provides an invaluable opportunity for individuals and organizations from the full breadth of our industry to share insight, expertise and ideas, and this year certainly offered our most comprehensive itinerary to date.

“The theme “Changing the Narrative” was created with the aim of encouraging those at the heart of our industry to consider how they can build a very bright future for synthetic turf by challenging misconceptions, addressing environmental challenges, but most importantly, bringing new concepts and ways of thinking to the fore.

“Our association continues to grow exponentially year-on-year, which is something we are incredibly proud of. With a record number of members in attendance at this year’s Congress, we’re excited to see how our industry takes advantage of the raft of opportunities it faces over the next year.”

For more information on ESTC, visit www.estc.info.