Lead Levels in Children Continue to Decline Near Umicore’s Hoboken Site
The Provincial Institute of Hygiene (PIH) has reported a continued decline in blood lead levels among children living near Umicore’s Hoboken facility. The latest half-yearly measurements, conducted in spring 2025, show the average blood lead level has dropped.Since fall 2023, the voluntary testing program has expanded beyond the Moretusburg and Hertogvelden neighborhoods to include Visputten, Kapelstraat, and Vinkevelden—areas northeast of the site. This expansion, initiated in part at Umicore’s request, reflects changes to the landscape, such as the transformation of a residential zone into a green buffer area near the site walls. The broader study area enables a more comprehensive understanding of potential lead exposure sources and the impact of environmental mitigation efforts.
In the latest round, 264 children participated in the testing. In the neighborhoods closest to the plant—Moretusburg and Hertogvelden—the average lead level fell to 2.29 µg/dl, down from 2.46 µg/dl last fall. Only one child recorded a lead level above 10 µg/dl, compared to two in the previous cycle, one of whom belonged to the control group.
The ongoing decrease in blood lead levels demonstrates the effectiveness of our commitment to environmental improvement. We invest €25 million each year in advanced environmental projects to support this progress.
However, Ramharter also noted that the expanded testing area and in-home surveys requested by residents have identified other lead sources in the community, including lead water pipes, lead-based paint, and construction activities. In a neighborhood shaped by its industrial legacy, he emphasized the need for shared responsibility in achieving a long-term solution.
Testing Results Overview
| Measurement | Spring 2025 | Autumn 2024 | Spring 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Participating children (% of local child population) | 264 (38.5% of 686) | 258 (40.6% of 636) | 300 (43.9% of 684) |
| Area-wide average lead level | 2.05 µg/dl | 2.34 µg/dl | 2.70 µg/dl |
| Control group average | 1.69 µg/dl | 1.65 µg/dl | 2.20 µg/dl |
| % Children > 4 µg/dl | 4.6% | 8.2% | 14% |
| % Children < 2 µg/dl | 61.3% | 49.2% | 35.5% |
| Children > 10 µg/dl | 1 | 2 (1 in control group) | 0 |
| Avg. in Moretusburg–Hertogvelden | 2.29 µg/dl | 2.46 µg/dl | 2.96 µg/dl |
Families of children with blood lead levels above 4 µg/dl receive follow-up support from a dedicated prevention worker. Additionally, Umicore offers free in-home testing for lead dust and other potential sources. Households can also request free professional de-dusting, particularly in connection with renovation projects.
Umicore’s environmental investments focus on reducing airborne metal particles generated during the recycling of precious and critical metals. Key measures include:
- Advanced air purification systems in production facilities
- Additional gas scrubbing at the blast furnace
- Weather-adjusted site operations
- Hundreds of meters of windbreak barriers
A new connecting road, set to open in 2026, will further enhance environmental outcomes by replacing the current Adolf Greinerstraat route, which currently runs through the industrial zone.
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