The province of South Holland has announced the results of pilot studies on PFAS in the soil. These studies were conducted to gain better insight into possible PFAS contamination and health risks. The pilot studies show that PFAS is present in low concentrations at almost all investigated locations and does not pose a risk to public health.
Background
In 2024, the province conducted an inventory* of potential PFAS sources. It appeared that in South Holland there are approximately 1,617 locations where PFAS may have entered the soil, such as company sites, fire stations, and former landfills. At 90 locations, an increased risk of soil contamination was estimated. To investigate this further, pilot studies were conducted at 24 of these locations. Measurements were mainly taken halfway between a possible source and vulnerable functions such as residential areas with gardens, allotments, and drinking water extraction areas.
Pilot Study Results
The studies show that PFAS is present in low concentrations in the soil at almost all locations. At these levels, no health risks have been identified and no further action is needed.
At two locations – a transport company in Alblasserdam and a fire station in Zwijndrecht – locally higher concentrations of PFAS were found, above the indicative levels of severe contamination (INEV). Because these contaminations are limited in size and not near vulnerable objects, these concentrations also do not pose a health risk.
In addition to soil research, ditch water was also examined where possible. At one location, a ditch near a fire station in Spijkenisse, the use of the water for watering vegetable gardens may pose a risk. The municipality and involved residents have been informed. At another location, fluctuating PFAS levels were measured in the ditch water; surface water is being monitored here. Municipalities and public health services (GGDs) are aware and inform users if necessary.
Next Steps
The province is taking the lead to fully map the PFAS soil issue by 2030 at the latest. The successful method from the pilot will be applied: research in public areas between the source and vulnerable locations. Extra attention will also be given to firefighting foam sites and surface water. The studies will start this year and will take several years. Results will be published annually if possible.
* The inventory excludes the municipalities of Leiden, Schiedam, Rotterdam, The Hague, and Dordrecht; these municipalities were themselves competent authorities under the Soil Protection Act (Wbb) and still are for Wbb transitional situations. These municipalities conduct similar inventories themselves.