Increased PFAS values ​​in the sewage treatment plant on Vlieland.

What is PFAS and why is it a problem?

PFAS (poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances) are chemicals that do not occur in nature and break down very slowly. They are found in many products such as fire-fighting foam, non-stick pans, water-repellent sprays and food packaging. Because PFAS accumulates in the environment and in our bodies, high concentrations can be harmful. That is why increasingly strict rules are being introduced for these substances.

What was found on Vlieland?

For a year now, Wetterskip Fryslân has been conducting project-based research into PFAS and similar substances at all sewage treatment plants in Friesland. Deviatingly high PFAS values ​​have been found in three Frisian municipalities, including Vlieland.

How is the source of PFAS traced?

To find out where the PFAS contamination comes from, three sewage pumping stations at the Wetterskip on Vlieland were sampled in November 2024. The measurement results were announced to the municipality of Vlieland in January 2025. High PFAS values ​​were measured at all three locations. The investigation continues with:

• New measurements at the same three sewage pumping stations.

• Additional measurements at eight municipal sewer drains.

• Discussions with companies and organizations that may have used PFAS.

• In addition to the sewer measurements, the municipality had surface water sampled at five locations on January 29, 2025. The results of this will follow.

Because PFAS can remain in soil and water for years, the contamination can come from either an active or historic source. 

What happens to the sewage water?

The sewer system on Vlieland is a closed system. After purification, the water is discharged into the Wadden Sea, where the PFAS become highly diluted. The GGD is currently not issuing any warnings because there are no direct risks to public health.

What does this mean for residents and tourists?

There is no danger to the health of residents, tourists or animals on Vlieland because they do not come into contact with the sewage water. But the municipality and relevant authorities are taking the situation seriously and continue to work on detecting and reducing PFAS pollution.

With regard to drinking water on Vlieland: water company Vitens regularly checks the water quality of the drinking water. This is clean and healthy and meets the health standards as used by the RIVM for PFAS

Do you have any questions?

• Click here for a Q&A on this subject

• For health questions: GGD Fryslân (088 22 99 222)

• For questions about drinking water: Vitens (0800 0359)

• For questions about sewage treatment: Wetterskip Fryslân (058 292 2222)