Turnhout’s Wetland Project: Cleaning the Grote Caliebeek Naturally
Turnhout (Eurotoday) – Turnhout is tackling pollution in the Grote Caliebeek by creating a wetland with reeds to filter out harmful chromium. This eco-friendly and cost-effective project, led by Alderman Adriansens, also helps prevent flooding.
Restoring the Grote Caliebeek
The Grote Caliebeek, a stream in Turnhout, Belgium, has been contaminated for years due to chromium waste from old tanneries in Oud-Turnhout. This pollution has made the water unsafe, harming local wildlife and plants.
How Turnhout's Wetland Cleans the Water and Prevents Flooding
To restore the stream, Turnhout is developing a wetland—a marshy area filled with reeds. These plants are known for their ability to filter out pollutants like chromium, and they also support microorganisms in the soil that help break down contamination.
Alderman Adriansens highlighted that this solution is both effective and budget-friendly. By using nature-based techniques, Turnhout aims to improve water quality while enhancing the region’s biodiversity.
The wetland functions like a natural filtration pond, gradually purifying the water over time. Although the cleaning process will take several years, the wetland will continue improving the stream’s health for the long term.
Protecting Against Floods
Beyond water purification, the wetland plays a crucial role in flood prevention. Constructed below the stream’s level, it allows water to flow through naturally without the need for pumps.
Officials explained that the wetland helps regulate water levels and can absorb excess rainwater, preventing the stream from overflowing and causing damage to nearby areas.
By combining environmental restoration with flood control, Turnhout’s wetland project offers a sustainable solution for both nature and local communities.
Eurotoday is a daily online newspaper based in Belgium. It provides independent coverage of international and European affairs, offering a Europe-wide perspective on EU policies, major developments in Member States, and global issues viewed through a European lens.













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