The Public Prosecution Service has urged a company in Eerbeek, Gelderland, to cease soil contamination with steel slag. These gray, stone-like granules are used as a sand substitute in road construction.
The company, Stort Doonweg, uses steel slag as a cover layer on a former landfill, posing health and environmental risks, according to the prosecution. The company is suspected of misusing steel slag based on an investigation by the ILT-IOD.
Due to deliberate environmental law violations, the prosecution seeks immediate judicial intervention. Approximately 220,000 tons of uncovered steel slag have been applied in Eerbeek, affecting a landfill, solar park foundation, and road construction.
Since 2019, contaminated rainwater with high pH and metals has leaked from the slag, threatening soil and groundwater quality. Residents reported health issues such as nosebleeds, and local ditches showed water with pH levels “similar to drain cleaner,” reported by Omroep Gelderland.
The Zwolle court’s economic chamber will address the prosecution’s demand on January 17.
Source: NOS