Research into PFAS in soil and surface water at Schiphol

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To gain clarity about the presence of PFAS on the airport site, Schiphol has commissioned extensive research into PFAS in the soil and in surface water. This helps us understand potential risks to people, the environment and the spread of PFAS. Based on this knowledge, we can carry out targeted follow‑up investigations and work with an action plan to prevent the spread of PFAS as much as possible.

PFAS in the Netherlands

PFAS is found throughout the Netherlands in both soil and water. Schiphol took the initiative to conduct research and involved specialist experts. Meanwhile, all provinces in the Netherlands have been instructed by the national government to assess PFAS. By commissioning this research, Schiphol aims to contribute to addressing the PFAS issue in the Netherlands.

How PFAS entered the soil at Schiphol

PFAS entered the soil at Schiphol mainly due to the historical use of PFAS‑containing fire-fighting foam. This type of foam was once mandatory for dealing with liquid fires for safety reasons. We no longer use this type of foam. However, PFAS barely breaks down, meaning it is still present in various locations and can influence surface water.

What we have investigated

Independent consultancy firm Terrascan conducted two studies for Schiphol:

  1. An inventory of PFAS in the soil
    Based on historical (firefighting) incidents, interviews with the fire brigade, soil surveys since 2016 and operational activities, potential PFAS contamination in the soil has been identified.
  2. A study of PFAS in surface water
    Surface water at Schiphol was analysed using 59 monitoring points across the entire Schiphol site. Measurements were also taken at six discharge points.

The Vijfhuizen fire station next to the Polderbaan is a PFAS site that requires further investigation. However, a small section of the soil here will already have been remediated by early 2026.

The Vijfhuizen fire station next to the Polderbaan is a PFAS site that requires further investigation. However, a small section of the soil here will already have been remediated by early 2026.

Groundwater remediation has been taking place at the S-platform (for freight) for a number of years now. The system for pumping up the groundwater and purifying it using activated carbon filters is located in the green warehouse.

Groundwater remediation has been taking place at the S-platform (for freight) for a number of years now. The system for pumping up the groundwater and purifying it using activated carbon filters is located in the green warehouse.

The Bolstra pumping station is situated next to the Ringvaart on the south-eastern side of Schiphol.

The Bolstra pumping station is situated next to the Ringvaart on the south-eastern side of Schiphol.

The NS-Noord pumping station on the north side of Schiphol near P40, the staff car park.

The NS-Noord pumping station on the north side of Schiphol near P40, the staff car park.

Next steps

Based on Terrascan’s findings and recommendations, Schiphol has drawn up an action plan detailing the next steps and their priorities. We are discussing this plan with the Regional Environmental Service and the Rijnland Regional Water Authority. We have also asked the Public Health Service, GGD Kennemerland, for advice on potential health risks. Each of these organisations has its own role and expertise in assessing risks and safeguarding water and soil quality. This ensures that our measures align with applicable regulations and health guidelines.

The summaries and action plan are only available in Dutch.

Read the summary of the soil report here
Read the summary of the water report here
Read the action plan here

Frequently asked questions about the research and our approach

You’ll find a number of frequently asked questions below. Is your question not listed? Please email us at pfasvragen@schiphol.nl. For some questions we may refer you to another organisation because the relevant expertise lies elsewhere, such as with the Public Health Service (GGD).