Olen (Eurotoday) – In Olen, Belgium, recent air quality data shows elevated levels of arsenic in fine particulate dust, particularly around Aurubis, a metal recycling facility. The company operates its own air quality monitoring station north of the site due to the area’s natural resources, including oil and gas. While Aurubis currently complies with existing air quality standards, stricter emissions regulations are set for implementation in 2030.
New findings indicate that arsenic concentrations in airborne fine dust near the Aurubis site have risen significantly, according to a report by VRT. Despite current legal compliance—13 nanograms per cubic meter (ng/m³) measured in 2024 versus the EU’s target of 6 ng/m³—Aurubis is now requesting an 18-month extension to meet the incoming 2030 standards. Local authorities oppose the request, arguing that the company has failed to honor previous commitments to reduce harmful dust emissions.
At present, no immediate health advisories have been issued for residents.
“Residents do not have to worry right away. These are initial measurements. This means that further research must now follow at various measuring points to see whether this result is also confirmed elsewhere,” explained Marc Verhulst (O1), Olen’s Alderman for the Environment.
Verhulst added that Aurubis was already required, more than a year ago, to seal the scrap incinerator’s roof, doors, and windows to prevent dust leaks as part of their environmental permit. However, the company did not carry out the mandated repairs and is now requesting additional time.
“With the poor results of the opinions, we have decided to advise negatively from the board of aldermen on this request for postponement. In other words, we want them to make sure that the arsenic can no longer escape. The permanent deputation of the province must ultimately make the decision. They will have to grant some postponement because nothing has happened yet. We do want a plan of action. Otherwise, nothing may have changed after 18 months. It concerns the health of our residents, and we do not want to allow too many compromises,” Verhulst stated.
Background on Arsenic Contamination in Olen
Aurubis in Olen has long faced scrutiny for emissions of heavy metals, including arsenic. The facility processes scrap metal, generating toxic dust during melting and incineration. In 2024, local air quality monitoring indicated arsenic levels of 13 ng/m³—more than double the EU’s target of 6 ng/m³. While these readings fall within current legal limits, the standards will tighten in 2030, making compliance a legal necessity.
The company’s monitoring station revealed elevated arsenic in airborne particulate matter, especially the finer dust particles, which pose greater health risks. Authorities had previously required Aurubis to address leaks in its facility’s structure, but the company failed to act within the stipulated time and is now seeking an extension, a move heavily criticized by local officials.
The region surrounding Olen has historically faced environmental challenges from industrial activities, prompting civic leaders to call for stronger regulations to protect public health.
The Flemish government will ultimately decide whether to grant Aurubis the extension. In the meantime, environmental regulators are continuing to assess contamination levels. The case illustrates the broader tension between industrial productivity and environmental responsibility as the EU tightens air quality standards across the continent.
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