ZeroPFAS focuses on Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the Baltic Sea region. The ambition is to phase out PFAS from wastewater and sludge systems and coordinate an emerging professional network of PFAS experts in the region.
PFAS are used in many industries. They are resistant to degradation in nature and some of them can cause serious human health diseases. ZeroPFAS has a special focus on the existing knowledge gap about PFAS removal from wastewater. Missing information and analysis have been hindering the development and adaptation of advanced treatment technologies. In view of this, there is a need for better sludge management to minimize the negative influence on the environment. ZeroPFAS wants to see more cooperation and common efforts from the countries in the Baltic Sea region in order to maintain a good health status in the region. The goal is to increase knowledge on PFAS removal from wastewater, and in the long run to develop and adapt the techniques to remove PFAS from wastewater and sludge systems. Furthermore, the lead partner will coordinate and further develop a professional network of PFAS experts.
The core activity of ZeroPFAS is to set up a research network regarding wastewater and sludge treatment systems in the Baltic Sea region and to provide awareness and new knowledge on PFAS. A series of seminars will be held to accelerate the knowledge and experience exchange. The project consortium will especially focus on treatment technologies. Potential technologies will be assessed and evaluated through visits to three wastewater treatment plants in Sweden, Poland and Latvia. The project will also produce a state-of-the-art report and a research proposal on future treatment technologies for PFAS.