Experts discuss Sustainability, Renovation and Performance at FSB

2025-10  Sustainable sports and leisure facilities support environmental responsibility, performance characteristics and long-term financial viability in the sports sector. At the International Trade Fair for Outdoor Recreation, Sports and Exercise Facilities in Cologne, exhibitors and experts met to discuss future-focused topics.

Surface Renovations and Refurbishments

Running track refurbishments typically involve surface resurfacing or replacement, with major works like resurfacing usually needed every 7-10 years due to wear and tear. The process includes removing the old surface, repairing the subgrade or subfloor if necessary, paving a new rubberized surface, and repainting the lines. Surfacing experts of the International Association for Sports Surface Science (ISSS) discussed necessary performance requirements, work methods and certification-related governance questions.

Testing of Indoor and Temporary Facilities

Surfacing experts and testing laboratories agreed to begin on-site testing of temporary and indoor tracks. In case of indoor track installations, a specific emphasis will be placed on comparing results of straight sections with banked areas. Initial focus will concentrate on vertical deformation as the primary metric whilst it will be considered to develop a custom test method as modification to existing standard

Sustainability Discussion at KölnSKY

Sourcing sustainable and socially responsible materials starts with procurement decisions. When economically and operationally possible, sustainability questions integrate the consideration of environmental issues, impacts on supply chain and production as well as life-cycle considerations. Manufacturing not only considers product life cycle but extends into minimising production waste by reducing, reusing or recycling efforts. At the same time, considerations need to be given to material, energy and water use within manufacturing processes and other activities to minimize the consumption of natural resources.

Additional Information

For further information, please contact chemneera.

References:

Panel Discussion at KölnSKY organized by Conica AG (Switzerland)
Technical Meeting organized by ISSS (Switzerland)