Restoring Land and Protecting Water

Introduction

Slovenia, with its mix of fertile valleys, mountain ranges, and industrial hubs, has always balanced economic growth with its rich natural environment. Agriculture in the Drava and Mura river basins, industry in central Slovenia, and mining legacies in regions like Zasavje and Mežica have all contributed to the nation’s development. But decades of intensive farming, industrial activity, and urban expansion have also left behind a pressing issue soil and groundwater contamination. Pollutants are now threatening farmland, aquifers, and community health.

At The Ground Water Company, we provide specialized soil remediation services across Slovenia. Our work supports industries, municipalities, and landowners in restoring polluted land, protecting water resources, and ensuring compliance with both Slovenian 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 chemicals – Fertilizers and pesticides used in intensive farming, particularly in the Drava and Mura plains.
• Petroleum hydrocarbons – Spills from transport corridors, industrial plants, and fuel storage facilities.
• Heavy metals – Pollution from historic mining regions such as Mežica (lead and zinc) and Zasavje (coal).
• Industrial waste – Residues from factories and outdated landfills near urban centers.
• Nitrate buildup – Over-fertilization and irrigation practices impacting groundwater.

Key Soil Contamination Challenges in Slovenia

Slovenia’s environment faces unique challenges shaped by its geography and history:

• Agricultural Pressure – Fertilizer use in lowland farming regions has led to nitrate buildup in soils and aquifers.
• Mining Legacies – Old mines, especially in northern Slovenia, continue to release heavy metals into soil and rivers.
• Industrial Footprints – Central industrial hubs leave behind hydrocarbons and solvents.
• Urban Development – Expanding cities, such as Ljubljana and Maribor, increase stress on waste management systems.
• Aquifer Reliance – With groundwater providing most of Slovenia’s drinking water, contamination risks have long-term consequences.

Our Soil Remediation Services in Slovenia

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 Slovenia

• Protects Drinking Water – Safeguards aquifers that supply most of the country’s households.
• Restores Farmland – Ensures soils remain fertile and productive.
• Supports Compliance – Meets Slovenian and EU environmental requirements.
• Protects Communities – Reduces risks of exposure to toxic substances.
• Revitalizes Land – Restores brownfield sites for safe redevelopment.

Other Groundwater Services We Provide in Slovenia

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

Slovenia’s reliance on fertile farmland, clean rivers, and safe groundwater makes soil and water protection essential for its future. At The Ground Water Company, we bring proven expertise, technology, and on-the-ground experience to restore contaminated sites, safeguard aquifers, and support sustainable development. Our mission is to help Slovenia protect its environment while enabling growth that lasts for generations.