Additional OVAM soil investigation in Hoboken: Umicore continues to take responsibility

The OVAM recently carried out an additional soil investigation at various locations in the vicinity of Umicore's recycling site in Hoboken. This investigation was started in order to check whether the increased lead deposit in the spring of 2020 could have led to new soil contamination. 

Although the results and conclusions of this recent investigation are not yet known, Umicore will work with the authorities to identify the cause of any contamination and, if necessary, carry out remediation. In that case, Umicore will define the arrangements together with OVAM. 

In the framework of the soil decontamination covenant concluded with OVAM and the Flemish Government, Umicore committed in 2004 to remediate the historical pollution at and around its industrial sites in Flanders. The covenant, which covered the period between 2004 and 2019, has already led to the clean-up of the Moretusburg and Hertogvelden residential areas between 2006 and 2008 and to various clean-up projects on Umicore's industrial site.