PFAS-URBANOS​

Treatment of PFAS Substances in the Waters of the Helsinki Metropolitan Area and Increasing Awareness​

Core Focus


PFAS-URBANOS tackles PFAS pollution at source in the Helsinki metropolitan area, centred on the River Vantaa. Combining hotspot surveying, a review of remediation technologies, source-treatment pilots and public awareness work, the project will demonstrate practical and scalable PFAS removal under real conditions. ​

Challenge


The River Vantaa is Finland's most PFAS-polluted river system, with high concentrations from landfill leachate and former airport and firefighting areas, and a regional backup water source. Treatment technologies exist but are limited by cost, scalability and site conditions, so with large volumes and tight budgets few operators offer viable options at scale.​

Key Activities

  • Survey expected PFAS hotspots through water sampling and historical data.​
  • Map available PFAS remediation technologies and reach out to subcontractors.​
  • Select two concentrated PFAS-impacted streams for source treatment.​
  • Run two eight-month turnkey source-treatment pilots.​
  • Present results at events and hold a final seminar for citizens and operators. ​

Communities Engaged

  • River basin & inland water communities ​
  • Fisheries / aquaculture / blue economy ​
  • Citizen science & community education​
  • Conservation & environmental protection​
  • Waterfront cities & regional authorities​

Project info

  • Funding instrument: Community-Led Actions

  • Lead partner: Water Protection Association of the River Vantaa and Helsinki Region (VHVSY) (Finland)

  • Consortium members:
    • Helsinki Region Environmental Services Authority HSY (FI)
    • City of Helsinki (FI)

  • Project Budget: €578.125,00

  • Country of implementation: Finland

  • Project duration: Up to 24 months