Safe remediation of the Mitraco chemical cleaning company

After the bankruptcy in 2015, the former Mitraco site remained untouched for a long time. Until De Vlaamse Waterweg gave the green light for a large-scale remediation in 2021. On the site, we found enormous quantities of chemical waste, much of which was of unknown origin and/or in damaged packaging. Initially, the estimate was approximately 500 tons. But once we got started, it quickly became clear that the volume was much greater. Over a period of six months, we analyzed, repackaged, and safely disposed of more than 1,100 tons of waste.

Enormous quantity of unknown substances

We began with a complete inventory of the substances present. Because little to no information was available, we sampled and analyzed every drum, every container, and all packaging on the site individually. We then repackaged the waste into UN-approved containers. We transported these in 125 shipments to 18 certified processors in Flanders and Wallonia. Among other things, we cleared out an abandoned water treatment plant, various pickling baths, a paint stripping pit, more than 150 IBCs, and dozens of containers with unknown contents. The warehouse and office buildings were also emptied. Where possible, we recycled: we hauled away 36 tons of scrap metal for recycling.

No Compromises on Safety for People and the Environment

The complexity of this project is easy to imagine. Thanks to our preparation, experience, and flexibility, we were able to carry out this work without compromising on safety for people and the environment. Our environmental and cleaning departments worked closely together to ensure every step was executed correctly. Everything proceeded without incident and in full compliance with the law.

With this remediation, we restored the site to a safe and manageable condition. Thanks to our various specializations—environment, cleaning, and waste management—we can tackle such projects holistically. That flexibility, combined with years of experience and a practical approach, allows us to respond quickly to whatever a situation demands.