Society

The EU-funded project PEACOC developed a pioneering microwave-assisted leaching pilot that promises to reduce time, energy and chemicals needed to recover Platinum Group Metals from spent automotive catalysts.

Industrial zones hold significant potential for progress. This was the key takeaway from the event Waterwinsten op bedrijventerreinen, organized by VITO Water Knowledge Centre in collaboration with the municipality of Grimbergen, the Hi! site, and the Strombeek Cultural Centre. Around 80 participants – including policymakers, businesses, and researchers – gathered to address one central question: how can we make industrial sites more resilient to drought and water-related challenges?

On May 7, 2025, the official launch of the Interreg NWE project PREWAPHARM (Preventing Water pollution by Pharmaceuticals) was held at the Provincial House of Drenthe. This marks the beginning of an ambitious collaboration involving 18 partners and 30 associated organisations across seven countries. The project's primary objective is to tackle water pollution caused by pharmaceutical residues through close cooperation between the healthcare and water management sectors.

Summer increases the risk of overheating in homes. But why does this happen? What impact does it have on your body and your living environment? And most importantly, how can you manage it effectively? Experts provide insights, explanations, and practical tips to help you stay cool and safe.

The FLAXIT project (High-value products from flaxseed through innovative biocatalytic technologies) has officially concluded, marking a significant leap forward in the sustainable valorisation of flaxseed. Launched in early 2023 and funded by FWO, this ambitious initiative united VITO, ILVO, KdG, and the University of Antwerp in a shared mission: to unlock the full potential of flaxseed through a zero-waste biorefinery approach. 

On 13 May 2025, the European Environment Agency (EEA) announced a major milestone within the Pan-European component of the Copernicus Land Monitoring Service (CLMS). For the first time, the portfolio of High Resolution Layers (HRL) is being expanded with a brand-new thematic layer: HRL Cropland. This development, in close collaboration with VITO, marks a significant leap forward in the detailed monitoring of agricultural land across Europe.