Safety and sustainability on children’s playgrounds will significantly increase with the launch of Brock PlayBase, the first 100% closed loop recyclable base system engineered for playground surfaces. The product is the only C2C system designed to provide shock absorption and drainage in playgrounds under both artificial turf and rubber mulch surfacing. Reflecting their mutual commitment to sustainability, Brock has forged a strategic, exclusive distribution relationship for PlayBase with Shaw Industries’ Turf Division, which is comprised of Southwest Greens, Shaw Sportexe and TerraSoft.
“We’ve leveraged all of our proven expertise with injury prevention, performance and sustainability in athletic fields to improve the safety of children’s playgrounds with our environmentally-friendly technology,” said Dan Sawyer, CEO of Brock International. “Partnering with Shaw Industries has allowed us to offer the only truly sustainable playground pad and turf system available together in the market.”
Typical rubber buffing commonly used under playgrounds only lasts three to five years and is not recyclable. Engineered to provide optimal and consistent Head Injury (H.I.C.) test results for 20 years, four times the average life of other bases, Brock PlayBase is 100% recyclable and non-toxic. It is manufactured into an interlocking panel system with the highest quality, food grade, 100% pure polypropylene, known for its longevity and environmental safety. The panels can be re-used, or easily recycled to begin their next life as a quality, durable material with minimal use of additional energy or waste.
“This strategic distribution relationship has created the most sustainable children’s playground offering in the industry,” noted Kyle Ehman, President of Southwest Greens International. “Brock PlayBase delivers a predictable, consistent surface suitable for various climates. “But more importantly, Brock and Shaw share a commitment to environmental stewardship and the development of the highest quality products.”
Brock PlayBase system will be used under Shawgrass synthetic turf and certain types of TerraSoft mulch rubber surfaces for playgrounds to help buffer trips and falls and reduce injury. Designed to provide incredible shock absorption, its porous foam base accelerates drainage both vertically and laterally while addressing water storage. Launched for the first time now in North America, Brock PlayBase is currently used in more than 500 playgrounds at schools, parks and other outdoor recreational areas throughout Europe.