Restoring Land and Protecting Water

Introduction

Portugal is a country of contrasts fertile river valleys, historic towns, vibrant coastal cities, and a strong agricultural and industrial base. From the wine-producing Douro Valley to the industries of Lisbon and Porto, and the growing urbanization along the Algarve, Portugal’s development reflects centuries of progress. But this growth has also left behind environmental challenges. Overuse of pesticides in farming, leaks from industrial hubs and refineries, heavy metals in former mining regions, and uncontrolled urban waste have contributed to soil and groundwater contamination.

With rising demand for clean water, increasing pressure on agricultural land, and strict European Union environmental regulations, soil remediation in Portugal is no longer just a technical choice it is an environmental and economic necessity.

At The Ground Water Company, we work with municipalities, industries, and landowners across Portugal to restore contaminated soils, protect aquifers, and support sustainable development for the future.

What Is Soil Remediation?

Soil remediation is the process of cleaning up and restoring contaminated soil to make it safe for people, plants, and animals. It’s commonly used at sites where industrial activities, chemical spills, or improper waste disposal have polluted the ground.

• Agriculture – Excessive use of fertilizers and pesticides, particularly in the Alentejo and Douro farming regions.
• Industry & Ports – Hydrocarbon spills, chemical leaks, and industrial waste near refineries, shipyards, and logistics hubs in Lisbon, Setúbal, and Porto.
• Mining Legacy – Heavy metals from historic mining operations in areas like Alentejo and the north.
• Urban Growth – Landfill leachates, poor waste management, and construction-related pollution from rapidly growing urban centers.

Soil Contamination Challenges in Portugal

Portugal’s geography and economy present unique soil and groundwater challenges:

• Agricultural Pressure – Nitrate accumulation in soils and aquifers due to intensive irrigation and fertilizer use.
• Industrial Legacy – Oil, hydrocarbon, and chemical contamination around key industrial corridors and coastal hubs.
• Mining Footprint – Abandoned mines that still leach toxic metals into soils and groundwater.
• Water Stress – With many regions depending on groundwater, contamination directly threatens drinking water supplies and agricultural productivity.

Our Soil Remediation Services in Portugal

1. Site Assessment & Soil Testing

Soil sampling and analysis to identify contaminants

Risk assessment for human health and environment

Geotechnical surveys to understand soil structure

2. Excavation & Disposal

Removal of contaminated soil

Transport to licensed disposal facilities

Landfill management or off-site treatment

3.In-Situ Remediation Services

Bioremediation (using microbes or plants)

Chemical oxidation/reduction

Soil vapor extraction

Phytoremediation

4.Ex-Situ Remediation Services

Soil washing

Thermal desorption

Stabilization 

5.Water Treatment 

Pump and treat systems

Permeable reactive barriers

Containment systems

6.Monitoring & Reporting

Post-remediation soil testing

Environmental monitoring

Regulatory reporting and documentation

Why Soil Remediation Matters for Portugal

• Protects Aquifers – Ensures safe and sustainable water resources for households, agriculture, and industries.
• Revives Agriculture – Restores soil health essential for Portugal’s wine, olive oil, and agricultural exports.
• Supports Redevelopment – Makes abandoned or polluted brownfield sites viable for new projects.
• Protects Communities – Reduces exposure to harmful toxins and pollutants.
• Ensures Compliance – Helps Portugal meet strict EU environmental directives.

Other Groundwater Services We Provide in Portugal

In addition to soil remediation, GWC offers a wide range of groundwater services:

•  Ground water exploration
•  Ground water recharge
•  Ground water contamination
•  Dewatering solutions
•  Flooding solutions
•  Hydrological studies
•  Ground water seepag
  
•  Ground water remediation 
•  Flood risk assessment
•  Ground water consulting
•  Ground water quality monitoring
•  Integrated water resources management
•  Rock mapping
  

Conclusion

Portugal’s fertile farmlands, growing industries, and historic urban centers make soil and groundwater protection a pressing priority. At The Ground Water Company, we combine scientific expertise, proven technologies, and hands-on experience to deliver lasting solutions.