A in South Africa is highlighting how
SPORTS PITCHES
How Synthetic Turf is Supplying Fresh Water in South Africa
landmark project
A in South Africa is highlighting how
synthetic turf can be used to enable freshwater recycling. Two‘ Cruyff Courts’ are simultaneously providing a high-quality playing surface while integrating an advanced water collection and filtration system under the field, providing the local community with fresh potable water.
The installation of the courts is part of a wider initiative by the Cruyff Foundation, supporting various sports endeavours for children, and young people with special needs. The two new fields in Orange Farm, near Johannesburg, bring the total number of Cruyff Courts to 10 in the country.
The investment and innovation come as South Africa is currently grappling with one of the most severe droughts in recent history, affecting approximately 61 million people across Southern Africa.[ 1 ] The prolonged drought has led to significant water shortages, impacting both urban and rural communities.
The Government has launched the Water Crisis Action Plan 2025, focusing on infrastructure rehabilitation, smart metering systems, and new dam projects to mitigate the crisis. Despite these efforts, the agricultural sector faces devastating losses, contributing to widespread food insecurity. Innovative solutions, including publicprivate partnerships and technological advancements like the freshwater recycling beneath the Cruyff Courts, are also being implemented to address the urgent need for sustainable water management.
The project was headed up by EMEA Synthetic Turf Council( ESTC) member Dutchblue, who provided an advanced water collection and filtration system through its partners Project GreenSource SA.
60 GroundskeepingJournal. co. uk | September / October 2025