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AS suburb density increases, backyards decrease in size.
Turf Australia president Anthony Muscat said smaller yards could have a detrimental effect on not only the health of the homeowner, but the community in general.
He said having a yard enhanced the physical, mental and cognitive health of the whole family.
"It helps children sustain a physical lifestyle, making it easy for them to go out and play in the safety of their own backyard without any hassles," he said.
"Throughout Sydney there are quite a few dense suburbs, which makes it difficult for properties to [have] turfed areas.
"In these [places], it is even more important to ensure that there [is] publicly available open, turfed space such as parks, sporting fields and recreational areas.
"It's been proven that families and children in high-density urban areas have more to gain from public green space, as it's an integral component of public health."
Mr Muscat said the World Health Organisation standard of 16 square-metres of green space per person was not being met in various Sydney suburbs.
"As cities continue to grow with industrial developments, homes with backyards are being compromised," he said.
"When you have a small yard, it can be difficult to use the space to the best of its potential, so one of the most important steps is to keep it clean and not clutter the space.
"Natural turf has a cooler, softer surface than artificial grass and is also very good for erosion control, and there are concerns about long-term exposure to synthetic turf."
Details: turfaustralia.com.au.
