Published on 29/09/2025
In 2024, eleven partners (VITO, OVAM, VMM, Tauw, Bio2Clean, INBO, Envisan (Jan De Nul), Novobiom, Universiteit Antwerpen, KU Leuven, Provincie Antwerpen) joined forces in the European LIFE-project PFASTER (PFAS systemic regional approach to Assess Spatial distribution, Transfer, Exposure and Remediation of widespread pollution). The project aims to characterize PFAS contamination in and around the site of the former paper factory De Naeyer in Willebroek, where high PFAS concentrations were detected and multiple no-regret measures apply, and to investigate which remediation techniques are most effective in removing PFAS from the site and its surroundings. Coordinated by OVAM, the project focuses on both innovative remediation techniques and nature-based solutions.
Within PFASTER, ECOSPHERE (Lieven Bervoets and Thimo Groffen) plays a key role in studying the composition and spatial distribution of PFAS in the terrestrial and aquatic food chain through targeted analysis. In addition, we investigate food chain transfer and help identify potential ecological risks of PFAS pollution. Finally, by examining PFAS uptake in plants that are either already managed or could be incorporated into management strategies for nature reserves, we contribute to exploring the potential of phytoremediation.
