The airport comprises 635 acre of open green-land as well as 173 acre sealed or covered area. For some years, all rainwater from these covered areas has been conveyed through oil traps before being released into the rainwater course. Over the years, these traps have improved with coalescent stages and, are able to purify the water containing oily substances. These stages use the principle of accumulation of small drops on percolating filters. The bigger, collective drops then rise to the surface, building a film which can be skimmed off.
During the summer period (May-October), rainwater treated in such a way is directly discharged into the receiving water course.
During the winter period (November-April), and according to certain weather conditions, surface water can contain various amounts of de-icing agents.
Over the years, surface and aircraft de-icing agents have been replaced by substances with higher biodegradability (properties). Even so, at two main discharging points, TOC analysing plants have been installed. These plants measure the amount of organic substances within the water. If the analysed TOC value is below the threshold level, the water can be fed into the receiving water course. If it is above the value, it is discharged into the sewerage.
Furthermore, these analysing procedures as well as regular ‘independent third party’ controls, guarantees that due diligence is exercised in preventing any form of untoward or accidental water pollution.
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