High PFAS concentrations found at 170 locations in the Netherlands

Utrecht University has found 170 locations in the Netherlands that have abnormally high PFAS concentrations in Dutch surface water. This discovery was made after the Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate (ILT) asked the university to do a reconnaissance into the matter, according to a statement from the ILT.

PFAS are man-made substances that do not naturally occur in the environment and are hard to break down. These per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances are everywhere in the environment.

The Utrecht University used measuring data from Rijkswaterstaat about PFAS concentrations in the Rijn and Maas rivers and data from Dutch Water Boards regarding regional and inland waters from between 2018 and 2023 for their reconnaissance.

“Because PFAS are found in many products and can be dangerous, the ILT monitors the use of these substances. We asked Utrecht University to conduct research into PFAS in surface water because we want to know where PFAS deviations come from,” said Guido van der Meij, the project leader of PFAS at the ILT.

The results of the assignment showed 170 locations with abnormally high PFAS concentrations. This suggests that a PFAS source was or still is in the close vicinity of these areas.

This likely came from nearby companies. The ILT has warned the companies responsible for the pollution to take measures. “We will track down and tackle these polluting sources. Of course, we prefer that companies are aware of their contribution to pollution and take steps to prevent emissions,” said Van der Meij.

Companies that use PFAS will be regularly visited with inspections. The ILT will conduct further research into PFAS sources based on more recent data this year. They will do this in collaboration with Rijkswaterstaat, water boards, and environmental services.

Appropriate measures will be taken against the responsible companies as a result of this. The ILT also wants to encourage companies to switch to completely PFAS-free fire-fighting foam in a responsible manner.