This project is dedicated to the growing challenge of “PFAS” in the Ems-Dollart-Region. For the first time, the project “Cross-border research on PFAS on the Wadden Islands” is a practical cross-border cooperation on this topic. The core of the project is a broad investigation of PFAS contamination in various water sources. The specific area of investigation is the German and Dutch Wadden Islands, with comparisons and derivations also for the mainland.
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a group of man-made chemicals used in various commodities, the spread of which is considered potentially hazardous to the environment and human health. PFAS are extremely stable and are also referred to as “eternity chemicals”.
Together, the two largest water boards in the Ems-Dollart-Region, OOWV on the German side and Vitens on the Dutch side, want to face the new challenge “PFAS” through direct cooperation. On the basis of initial research (work package 1), methods for sampling and laboratory analysis are developed (work package 2), in order to then carry out the sampling and analyses in practice (work package 3), evaluate the data (work package 4) and draw conclusions and enter into dialogue (work package 5).
With data and recommendations for action, the project creates the basis for a future approach to PFAS in the Ems-Dollart-Region. The project results will be presented to public agencies, civil society actors and interested citizens in the region.
At the same time, this project is to be the prelude for an intensified cross-border institutional cooperation in the field of “water” with the exploration of possible follow-up activities for further common water challenges.
