News item | 28-03-2023 | 4:15 pm
The National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) today published the results of a study into the presence of PAHs (Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons) and metals in settled dust in the IJmond region. This is the area around Tata Steel.
The report published today is about a third measurement of the settled substances in the vicinity of Tata Steel. The measurements were commissioned by the province of North Holland and the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management and are part of the (joint) action plan for a healthier living environment in the IJmond.
PAH and metals
The study, like the previous two studies, shows that there are larger amounts of PAH and metals in settled dust in the IJmond than elsewhere in the Netherlands. Earlier research by the RIVM shows that Tata Steel is the main source of this type of dust. In addition, other sources in the IJmond, such as industry and traffic, can also contribute to this.
The amount of iron deposited in the entire area has decreased since the first study in 2020. This may indicate that less iron is being emitted in the IJmond region.
Improvement measures
Tata Steel is working on a series of improvement measures to reduce harmful emissions. Measures that should lead to a reduction still have to be implemented to a large extent.
State Secretary Vivianne Heijnen: “I must honestly say that I am disappointed how long it takes to achieve results. The company really needs to get going. There is only a future for Tata in the Netherlands if it is green and clean. The results of this third deposition study once again emphasize the urgency of implementing the announced improvements. I think it is important that the environment of Tata Steel becomes really cleaner and I will continue to work for this.”
More research
In order to determine whether emissions will decrease substantially, the deposition of PAH and metals will have to be measured over a longer period of time. Together with the province and RIVM, the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management will determine how monitoring should be continued.