PFAS contamination in allotment gardens: how to garden safely this season
Residents in four Dutch municipalities face risks from PFAS-contaminated soil in allotment gardens. Authorities are testing and restoring gardens to ensure safe homegrown produce, but precautions like alternating harvests with store-bought food are advised for now.
| Key Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Affected Municipalities | Dordrecht, Molenlanden, Papendrecht, Sliedrecht |
| Contaminant | PFAS (including PFOA) |
| Testing Progress | Nearly 40% of allotment gardens tested |
| Restoration Program | Led by Moestuinherstel Foundation, in collaboration with Chemours & RIVM |
| Safety Advice | Alternate garden produce with store-bought food; use tap/rainwater |
| Website for Updates | www.moestuinherstel.nl |
The RIVM (National Institute for Public Health and the Environment) provides scientific advice on public health risks, including soil contamination. Municipalities in the affected region are responsible for implementing safety measures and collaborating with organizations like the Moestuinherstel Foundation to restore allotment gardens.
Read the full translated article below
Allotment gardening season begins: tips for safe gardening
The allotment gardening season has begun again. Many residents are getting to work in their gardens or with raised beds. In our region, the soil may contain excessive levels of PFAS (such as PFOA). This raises the question of whether it is wise to start gardening.
Recovery program in four municipalities
The municipalities of Dordrecht, Molenlanden, Papendrecht, and Sliedrecht are collaborating with Chemours on a recovery program for allotment gardens, based on advice from the RIVM (National Institute for Public Health and the Environment). The Moestuinherstel (Allotment Restoration) Foundation is implementing this program. The goal is for people to once again safely and without restrictions eat produce from their own gardens.
Allotment garden testing
The Moestuinherstel Foundation is testing allotment gardens for PFAS and taking soil and water samples. Nearly 40% of allotment gardens in the region have already been tested. These gardeners have received a report with usage advice. The first private gardens will be restored this year.
Your allotment garden not yet tested?
Do you have an allotment garden that has not yet been tested for PFAS? The RIVM advises alternating the harvest from your garden with produce from the store. This is the safest option. Use tap water or rainwater for irrigation, not ditch water. When your allotment garden is scheduled for soil testing or restoration measures, you will receive direct notification from the Moestuinherstel Foundation. More information: www.moestuinherstel.nl