Life PFASTER tackles PFAS pollution in Willebroek

Eleven partners are joining forces to tackle PFAS contamination in and around the site of the former paper factory in Willebroek and to protect the surrounding area.

Watercourse quality

Willebroek

Share online

What and why?

Eleven partners are working together on this project to tackle PFAS contamination in and around the former paper factory in Willebroek. The VMM coordinates the monitoring of PFAS in the water.

Objectives and approach

PFASTER stands for PFAS systemic regional approach to Assess Spatial distribution, Transfer, Exposure and Remediation of widespread pollution. The project focuses on research, innovative remediation techniques and nature-based solutions to tackle local PFAS pollution. As the party responsible for monitoring, we will draw up and implement an area-specific monitoring plan. Since the paper industry uses specific substances from the PFAS family, it is possible to identify a specific “fingerprint” of PFAS in the paper industry and its behaviour and toxicity in the environment. In addition to PFAS, the VMM also investigates other pollutants, such as PCBs, PAHs, metals and organic pesticides. The collected data is entered into an online data platform, the PFAS explorer Willebroek.

Research and innovative remediation techniques

The LIFE project involves collaboration between public authorities, private partners and research institutions. The research focuses on the composition and distribution of PFAS, exposure routes and potential risks. Specific remediation techniques are being tested to break down PFAS, such as the use of fungi, bacteria and aquatic plants. For the remediation of heavily contaminated soil and groundwater, special filters are being developed and the applicability of on-site flushing combined with the use of fungi, and of a combination of techniques such as membrane filtration and plasma destruction, is being investigated.

Willebroek pilot project as an example for others

In 2021, we found high concentrations of PFAS at the site of the former paper factory in Willebroek. Various preventive measures (no regret measures) are currently in place in the immediate vicinity of the Fabrieksloop and Broek De Naeyer. Soil investigations, soil remediation and measures to address the residential areas on these redeveloped sites are still ongoing. The wider area surrounding the site, including the Broek de Naeyer provincial domain, also requires a thorough approach. We will then combine the knowledge and experience gained in an area vision for the remediation of the entire area. This project therefore represents an important step in the fight against PFAS contamination in Flanders and serves as an example for other contaminated areas.

Project partners

• Vlaamse MilieumaatschappiJ
• Openbare Vlaamse Afvalstoffenmaatschappij (OVAM)
• Instituut voor Natuur- en Bosonderzoek (INBO)
• VITO
• Novobiom
• bio2clean
• KULeuven
• Envisan
• TAUW
• Provincie Antwerpen
• Universiteit van Antwerpen