Is processing our vegetables harming the environment?

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About the research


3.5 liters of wastewater for 1 kg of vegetables 🥕💧 That's the amount of wastewater - full of sand, dirt and potentially pesticides - that is generated every time vegetables like carrots or beans are processed. This water often ends up in our rivers and streams, where even low concentrations of pesticides can harm fish, crabs, and other aquatic life. Current treatment methods fail to remove these pollutants, but Perry Hoendervangers (VITO) is testing two new approaches. Watch the video to see how we can protect our rivers and lakes! 

Environment
Perry Hoendervangers
UGent - VITO

Perry Hoendervangers began his PhD journey in December 2022 at VITO, in collaboration with Ghent University. His research focuses on the removal of pesticides from the wastewater of vegetable processing companies. These pesticides arise from various processes, such as washing, and are generally not removed by current treatment technologies. The overall objective of my PhD is to develop guidelines that enable the effective implementation of constructed wetlands and membrane filtration for pesticide removal in this type of wastewater. To achieve this, target pesticides were first selected based on a monitoring study conducted at multiple companies. The next step is to study both technologies at pilot scale.

In his free time, Perry enjoys cycling, playing indoor football, bouldering, and playing badminton. He also regularly cheers for his favourite football club, PSV Eindhoven - although his passion for this Dutch club has recently been surpassed by his dedication to ZVC Aequalis Gent, the indoor football club of which he is the president.

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