Protecting the environment and safeguarding the health of our employees and neighbouring communities are central to Umicore’s environmental approach. We take targeted measures to reduce emissions and monitor their effectiveness through regular measurements on and around our site.
What do we monitor?
We monitor emissions of particulate matter that may contain metals. These emissions may originate from:
- Guided emissions released via our stacks
- Diffuse emissions resulting from processes and logistical activities
- Other dust sources in the wider surrounding area
How do we measure emissions?
We use two complementary monitoring approaches to assess air quality:
Metals in settling dust (deposition)
Deposition gauges measure metals in dust that settles from the air and deposits on soil. We track monthly average values to understand how metals may accumulate in the environment over time. These measurements are primarily relevant for long‑term impacts, such as soil quality.Umicore operates approximately seven deposition gauges on and around the site.
Metals in fine particulate matter (PM10)
Our PM10 monitoring station at Oude Brugweg measures metal concentrations in fine particulate matter suspended in the air. PM10 consists of very small particles (smaller than 10 micrometres) that can be inhaled. These measurements provide insight into short‑term exposure and are therefore important for assessing potential health effects.
Standards and follow‑up
The Olen site complies with the emission standards set by the Flemish authorities. We closely monitor our emissions and go beyond what is legally required. We continuously adapt our installations and processes to further purify the air leaving our buildings. In this way, Umicore continues to reduce emissions and protect the living environment in and around the site.
Measurements by the Flemish Environment Agency (VMM)
Since early 2026, the Flemish Environment Agency (VMM) has been monitoring emissions across the entire industrial site using its own monitoring network, providing independent measurement results.
The validated results for the full year 2026 will be published on the VMM website in the spring of 2027. Preliminary results for January and February will be made available in May.
