PFAS systemic regional approach to Assess Spatial distribution, Transfer, Exposure and Remediation of widespread pollution in Willebroek, Flanders

Introduction

Extensive persistence of PFAS in Europe and its toxicity to life on earth, bioaccumulation, and adverse health and ecological effects make PFAS a top priority pollutant. Contemporary ‘one substance, one assessment approaches’ to remediate PFAS are difficult to apply through the different compartments given the extensive group of precursors and metabolites that can arise in the environment.

Current knowledge is insufficient to understand the risks posed by diffuse pollution to both people and the environment (‘one health’ approach) and has not yet been translated and integrated into management nor remediation practices.

Project Overview

LIFE PFASTER (PFAS systemic regional approach to Assess Spatial distribution, Transfer, Exposure and Remediation of wide-spread pollution in Willebroek, Flanders) aims to improve soil and water quality by developing a regional systemic remediation approach to reduce diffuse pollution with PFAS of soil, sediment, water, and biota. This includes innovative, cost-efficient methods to assess the spatial distribution and identification of exposure routes of the contaminants and the design and piloting of a replicable remediation approach beneficial for biodiversity and human health.

Key Steps

Key steps include:

1. Assess composition, spatial distribution, transfer, and ecological and related health risks of PFAS.
2. Design and pilot innovative and replicable (nature-based) remediation techniques, including:
   • Phyto- and mycoremediation
   • Mycofiltration
   • Constructed and floating wetlands
   • In-situ flushing
   • Physical-chemical groundwater treatment
3. Develop a remediation approach.
4. Replicate the remediation approach and best practice techniques at other sites in Flanders and Europe.

Project Area

The project area is the former industrial Willebroek site and its surroundings, an exemplary case for PFAS contaminated sites.

Partnerships

The 12 LIFE PFASTER expert partner organisations have a vast network of local, regional, and (inter)national partners for project input, dissemination, and replication.