The Port of Antwerp-Bruges, is on the lookout for innovative companies to tackle the challenge of efficiently and sustainably purifying PFAS-contaminated dewatering water during infrastructure projects. As excavation work takes place in the Antwerp harbor area, water contaminated with PFAS, a mix of polluted groundwater and brackish Scheldt and dock water, is generated at high rates. Despite current purification methods, the Port acknowledges the need for more effective and sustainable solutions.
Addressing PFAS Contamination
PFAS pollution is a widespread concern across various locations in Flanders and Europe, including the Antwerp harbor region. The Port of Antwerp-Bruges places a top priority on the well-being of both people and the environment. Environmental care is integral to the port’s operations, particularly during infrastructure projects where they aim to handle the issue responsibly.
The Challenge of PFAS Chains
A notable aspect of PFAS contamination lies in the existence of long and short PFAS chains. While existing methods, such as adsorption with activated carbon, effectively target long PFAS chains, they prove less efficient for shorter chains. The Antwerp harbor area predominantly features shorter PFAS chains, spreading through brackish groundwater. Sustainable and scalable solutions for this specific challenge have yet to undergo extensive testing in Flanders.
Innovative Government Initiatives
To address this gap, the Port of Antwerp-Bruges, supported by the Program for Innovative Government Procurements (PIO), is launching a market survey to identify pioneering companies in the water purification sector. The aim is to collaborate on developing, testing, and demonstrating innovative, scalable solutions.
Focus on Sustainability and Innovation
Sustainability and innovation are at the forefront of this initiative. The port is keen to explore novel technologies that can efficiently tackle PFAS contamination, especially in the context of large-scale infrastructure projects. The collaboration seeks to harness the expertise of forward-thinking companies to create solutions that not only meet the immediate needs of the Antwerp harbor area but can also be scaled for broader applications in water purification
In conclusion, the Port of Antwerp-Bruges is proactively addressing environmental concerns associated with PFAS contamination during infrastructure works. By reaching out to innovative companies through a market survey, the port aims to foster the development of efficient and sustainable water purification solutions. This initiative aligns with the port’s commitment to environmental stewardship, ensuring responsible and forward-thinking practices in the maritime and logistics sector.
