Recent investigations have revealed significant levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the Tic-Tic stream, located south of Brussels South Charleroi Airport.

This finding was reported by the Ecolo party amidst ongoing studies related to the airport’s operating permit renewal process.

PFAS, widely recognized as 'forever chemicals' due to their persistence in the environment, were detected at levels exceeding European Union safety thresholds by seven times.

The Ecolo party has highlighted the geographical context of the contamination, noting that the Tic-Tic stream flows through residential areas before merging with the Lodelinsart tributary, which subsequently feeds into the Sambre River.

Airport authorities have been discharging wastewater, stemming from domestic operations, into the stream for several years, which raises concerns regarding the treatment of this waste prior to its environmental discharge.

Ecolo member of Parliament Bénédicte Linard expressed concern over the impact of this pollution, especially following the earlier detection of PFAS in the nearby Tintia stream.

Linard stated, "It is inconceivable that the airport’s requested permit could be granted while considerable evidence suggests that substantial pollution persists in this area." The Ecolo party is urging for urgent health measures to protect local residents and agricultural stakeholders, alongside a call for transparent communication concerning the ongoing pollution issues.

Linard emphasized the necessity of enforcing the 'polluter pays' principle, advocating for clear accountability for the contamination caused.

She plans to address these concerns with Walloon Environment Minister Yves Coppieters during upcoming sessions in the regional parliament.

In response to earlier critiques, Minister Coppieters had stated that "numerous actions were planned to improve the quality of the airport's discharges." However, the recent findings call into question the effectiveness of these measures and signal ongoing challenges regarding industrial water management and environmental protection in the vicinity of the airport.

PFAS are synthetic chemicals primarily utilized for their resistance to heat, water, and oil in various industrial applications.

Due to their durability, these substances do not readily degrade in the environment and have been associated with numerous health risks, prompting the European Union to establish stringent regulatory measures regarding their usage and emission.

The ongoing contamination of the Tic-Tic stream and the historical issues related to the Tintia stream highlight significant environmental concerns that may have implications for both human health and local ecosystems, necessitating thorough oversight and intervention.