Rioseco, June 12, 2025 – On June 12, the Vicente Álvarez Cultural Center in Rioseco (Asturias) hosted a regional technical workshop as part of the European project ALERT-PFAS, organized by the Government of the Principality of Asturias. The aim of the event was to raise awareness and provide training on the risks of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) contamination in natural environments, particularly in areas affected by forest fires.
The workshop brought together more than 30 participants from a range of backgrounds, including water managers, public administration staff, protected area managers, emergency services, environmental analysis professionals, and research groups.
During the morning session, project experts presented the main goals and early results of ALERT-PFAS, with a particular focus on the risks posed by PFAS-containing firefighting foams, detection of these substances across the SUDOE region (Spain, France and Portugal), and the development of a digital tool for environmental risk assessment.
Key contributions came from Joana Bastos, representing NOVA University Lisbon, Albert Serra from CETAQUA, and representatives of IDP Ingeniería. The event was formally opened and closed by Alejandro Jesús Calvo Rodríguez, the Minister for Mobility, Environment and Emergency Management of the Principality of Asturias, who emphasized the institutional commitment to addressing emerging pollutants such as PFAS.
One of the most valued parts of the day was the afternoon field visit, where participants explored two key sites of the Asturias case study. First, they visited a pilot area restored after a wildfire, where experts explained the recovery work carried out. The group then toured the Rioseco drinking water treatment plant, where they discussed the challenges of ensuring water quality in the face of PFAS contamination.
The event concluded with an open discussion among participants, reinforcing the importance of collaboration among authorities, scientists, and local stakeholders to address the environmental challenges posed by PFAS in a coordinated way.
