Belgian village turns to hemp to combat eternal pollutants

The potential of the hemp as’environmental remediation tool is gaining ground, particularly with regard to contamination caused by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances(PFAS), often referred to as «forever chemicals.».

These substances have long-lasting effects on the environment because they are resistant to degradation in nature. An initiative that originated in the Belgian village of Lillo, which is part of Antwerp, will test the effectiveness of hemp in cleaning up soil contaminated by these persistent chemicals.

The Challenge of Contamination

PFAS are synthetic chemicals that have been used since the 1950s in a variety of industrial and consumer products because of their water- and grease-repellent properties. They are found in nonstick cookware, fast-food packaging, water-resistant clothing, carpets, and even personal care products such as waterproof mascara and sunscreen. However, their persistence means they accumulate in the environment, leading to widespread contamination of water, air, fish, and soil.

In Lillo, the contamination stems from the use of firefighting foam, which has led to significant PFAS pollution. The village plans to build a new fire station on the contaminated site, but the soil must first be decontaminated. That’s where hemp comes in. Researchers from the’University of Ghent and local officials are exploring the use of hemp to remove PFAS from the soil, an approach that could serve as a viable alternative to traditional methods such as excavation and soil incineration.

The Role of Hemp in Environmental Remediation

Hemp is known for its phytoremediation properties, —that is, its ability to absorb contaminants present in the soil and store them in its tissues. This method is being tested in Lillo to determine whether hemp can effectively reduce PFAS levels in the soil. According to Bart De Wever, mayor of Antwerp and head of emergency services, «The (hemp) plant is not only good for our circular economy; it also has the potential to extract PFAS from contaminated soil. That is why research in this area deserves our full support.»

The success of this initiative could lead to the nationwide rollout of hemp-based remediation techniques throughout Belgium. The results of this study are eagerly awaited and are expected to be released by fall.

Past Successes and Broader Implications

This isn't the first time Belgium has turned to the Hemp to Clean Up the Environment. The industrial giant 3M has already successfully carried out a project using hemp to remove PFAS from topsoil and purify groundwater at a site in Antwerp. However, this project also subjected 3M to intense political and financial scrutiny. In 2022, studies conducted as part of a tunnel project revealed that 3M had released high levels of toxins into the local environment, sparking widespread outrage and resulting in cleanup costs estimated at $30 billion.

Hemp’s success in these projects highlights its potential as a sustainable and effective means of combating soil contamination. As the world becomes increasingly aware of the dangers posed by PFAS, innovative solutions such as phytoremediation using hemp are crucial. In the United States, for example, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is preparing to classify certain PFAS-based chemicals as «hazardous substances,» which would require companies to report discharges and allow the EPA to pursue polluters more aggressively for remediation costs.

The Future of Hemp in Soil Remediation

The use of hemp for soil remediation represents a promising intersection between environmental science and sustainable agriculture. If the Lillo project proves successful, it could pave the way for wider application of this technique, not only in Belgium but also around the world. In absorbing PFAS into their leaves And through their stems, hemp plants offer a way to clean up contaminated soil without resorting to more disruptive and costly methods.

Furthermore, the dual benefit of using hemp—cleaning up the environment and contributing to the circular economy—makes it an attractive option. The parts of the plant that absorb PFAS can be safely disposed of, while the rest of the plant can still be used for various industrial and commercial purposes, thereby enhancing the overall economic viability of the approach.

How PFAS Enter the Human Body

The persistence and widespread use of PFAS have led to significant environmental contamination, which has ultimately resulted in human exposure. Here is a detailed overview of the various routes through which PFAS reach humans:

Sources of Contaminated Water

One of the main routes by which PFAS enter the human body is through contaminated drinking water. PFAS can seep into groundwater from industrial sites, fire training areas, landfills, and areas where PFAS-containing products are used. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), water contamination is a major concern because PFAS do not break down in water and can travel long distances, affecting the drinking water supplies of many communities.

Food Consumption

People can ingest PFAS through contaminated food. This contamination can occur in several ways:

• Food packaging: PFAS are used in food packaging materials to make them grease- and water-resistant. Over time, these chemicals can migrate from the packaging into the food.
• Agricultural products: PFAS can accumulate in crops grown on contaminated soil or irrigated with contaminated water. Livestock can also ingest PFAS from contaminated feed and water, leading to the accumulation of PFAS in meat, milk, and eggs.
• Fish and Seafood: Fish and other aquatic animals can accumulate PFAS from contaminated bodies of water. Eating fish from contaminated waters is a direct route for PFAS to enter the human body.

Airborne particles and dust

PFAS can also be present in the air and dust. These particles may come from industrial emissions, the use of certain consumer products, or the breakdown of materials containing PFAS. People can inhale these particles, which then enter the bloodstream through the respiratory system. Indoor air contamination can be particularly high in homes where PFAS-containing products are used, such as stain-resistant carpets, upholstery, and water-repellent clothing.

Consumer Products

Many everyday consumer products contain PFAS, and direct use of these products can lead to exposure. These include the following products:

• Nonstick cookware: PFAS are used in the manufacture of nonstick coatings for cookware. Although new regulations have reduced the use of certain PFAS, older cookware may still pose a risk.
• Water-resistant clothing and fabrics: Clothing, shoes, and fabrics treated with PFAS to make them water-resistant can release these chemicals when worn and washed.
• Personal care products: Some cosmetic products, particularly waterproof mascara, eyeliners, sunscreens, and shampoos, contain PFAS. These chemicals can be absorbed through the skin or accidentally ingested.

Trade Show

Workers in industries that manufacture or use PFAS are at greater risk of exposure. This includes people who work in the following sectors:

• Chemical manufacturing: Direct handling of PFAS or materials treated with PFAS can result in significant exposure.
• Firefighting: Firefighters use firefighting foams containing PFAS, which can lead to occupational exposure through inhalation and skin contact.
• Industrial sectors: Workers in the textile, leather, and paper industries—where PFAS are used for their water- and stain-resistant properties—may be exposed through various processes.

Maternal transfer

Pregnant women exposed to PFAS can pass these chemicals on to their developing fetuses through the placenta. In addition, PFAS can be transmitted to infants through breastfeeding. This situation is particularly concerning given the potential effects of PFAS on the health of developing children.

Health Effects

The persistence and bioaccumulative nature of PFAS mean that once they enter the human body, they remain there for a long time. Research has linked exposure to PFAS to various health problems, including

• Hormonal imbalance: PFAS can interfere with the endocrine system, affecting hormone levels and functions.
• Effects on the immune system: Exposure to PFAS has been linked to a reduced immune response to vaccines and an increased risk of infections.
• Cancer risk: Some studies suggest a link between exposure to PFAS and an increased risk of certain cancers, including kidney cancer and testicular cancer.
• Development issues: Exposure to PFAS in utero and early in life can lead to developmental delays and other health problems in children.