Restoring Land and Safeguarding Water

Introduction

Sweden is known for its forests, lakes, and strong commitment to sustainability. Yet, beneath this green reputation, parts of the country continue to face challenges tied to its industrial and agricultural past. From farming across the plains of Skåne, to old mining operations in Bergslagen, and legacy industries in urban hubs like Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmo, soil and groundwater contamination remain pressing concerns. Polluted land doesn’t just harm local ecosystems it also threatens aquifers that supply communities with clean drinking water.

At The Ground Water Company, we provide specialized soil remediation services throughout Sweden. Our aim is to help industries, municipalities, and property owners restore polluted sites, safeguard groundwater, and ensure compliance with both Swedish regulations and European Union environmental standards.

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.

• Agricultural runoff – Fertilizers and pesticides used in farming regions such as Skåne and Östergötland.
• Petroleum hydrocarbons – Spills and leaks from transport routes, industries, and fuel storage depots.
• Heavy metals – Pollution left behind by historical mining in regions like Bergslagen.
• Industrial waste – Outdated waste sites and legacy industries in urban areas.
• Nitrate accumulation – Linked to modern farming and irrigation practices, which can stress groundwater reserves.

Key Soil Contamination Challenges in Sweden

Sweden’s diverse landscapes and industrial history present specific challenges:

• Agricultural intensity – Fertilizer use in southern farmlands contributes to nitrate buildup in soils and water.
• Industrial legacies – Old factories and shipyards have left hydrocarbon and solvent contamination near cities.
• Mining heritage – Abandoned mines continue to release heavy metals into surrounding land and rivers.
• Urban growth – Rapid development in Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö increases pressure on land and waste systems.
• Groundwater reliance – Aquifers provide a large share of Sweden’s drinking water, making their protection a national priority.

Our Soil Remediation Services in Sweden

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 in Sweden

• Protects drinking water – Safeguards aquifers relied on by households across the country.
• Preserves farmland – Maintains the fertility of Sweden’s agricultural soils.
• Supports compliance – Meets both Swedish environmental laws and EU directives.
• Protects communities – Reduces risks of exposure to harmful contaminants.
• Unlocks redevelopment – Transforms polluted brownfield sites into safe areas for new projects.

Other Groundwater Services We Provide in Sweden

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 seepage 
•  Ground water remediation
  
•  Flood risk assessment
•  Ground water consulting
•  Ground water quality monitoring
•  Integrated water resources management
•  Rock mapping
  

Conclusion

Sweden has built a reputation as a global leader in sustainability, but addressing legacy pollution and safeguarding water resources remain vital for its future. At The Ground Water Company, we combine proven expertise with advanced technology to restore land, protect aquifers, and create safer, more sustainable environments. Our goal is simple: to help Sweden protect its natural resources while supporting responsible growth for generations to come.