Restoring Land and Safeguarding Water

Introduction

Norway is often celebrated for its fjords, forests, and clean environment, but like many developed nations, it also carries the weight of its industrial and agricultural past. From farming in regions like Slander and Trundling, to historical mining in areas such as Kongsberg and Rous, and legacy industries along the Oslo fjord, soil and groundwater contamination remain ongoing challenges. Polluted soils don’t just affect local ecosystems—they also threaten aquifers that provide communities with safe drinking water.

At The Ground Water Company, we deliver specialized soil remediation services across Norway. Our mission is to help municipalities, industries, and landowners restore polluted land, protect groundwater, and meet the high environmental standards set by Norwegian authorities and the European Union.

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 intensive farming areas.
• Petroleum hydrocarbons – Spills and leaks from transport routes, offshore activities, and fuel storage depots.
• Heavy metals – Residues from mining and smelting in historic industrial towns.
• Industrial waste – Outdated landfill sites and legacy contamination near ports and cities.
• Nitrates – Linked to modern farming practices and groundwater stress.

Key Soil Contamination Challenges in Norway

Norway’s geography and industrial heritage create unique challenges:

• Agricultural pressure – Fertilizer and pesticide use in lowland farming regions can lead to nitrate buildup.
• Industrial legacies – Shipyards, smelters, and factories have left behind hydrocarbon and solvent pollution.
• Mining heritage – Abandoned mines in areas like Røros continue to release heavy metals into soils and waterways.
• Urban growth – Expanding cities, especially Oslo and Bergen, put pressure on waste management and land use.
• Groundwater reliance – Many Norwegian towns depend on aquifers, making contamination a long-term risk.
  

Our Soil Remediation Services in Norway

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 Norway

• Protects drinking water – Safeguards aquifers that supply communities nationwide.
• Preserves farmland – Keeps Norway’s agricultural soils healthy and productive.
• Ensures compliance – Meets Norway’s strict environmental regulations and EU directives.
• Protects communities – Reduces risks from harmful pollutants.
• Revitalizes land – Restores old industrial or mining areas for safe redevelopment.
  

Other Groundwater Services We Provide in Norway

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

Norway’s future depends on maintaining its reputation for clean water, fertile land, and sustainable growth. Tackling legacy pollution and protecting aquifers are key steps in that journey. At The Ground Water Company, we bring the right expertise, technology, and practical experience to restore contaminated sites and safeguard natural resources. Our commitment is clear: helping Norway build a cleaner, safer, and more resilient environment for generations to come.