Pfas in water: Sant'Antonino activates carbon filtration (cross-border guide)

Context

In brief

• New activated carbon system for PFAS in Sant'Antonino
• Cost 1.8 million, funded by the Confederation
• PFAS concentration now below 2 ng/l

Key facts

• What: Activated carbon filtration for PFAS
• When: 7 May 2026
• Where: Sant'Antonino, Ticino
• Who: Municipality of Sant'Antonino
• Amount: 1.8 million francs

The new activated carbon filtration system for removing PFAS from drinking water has been put into operation in Sant'Antonino, Ticino. This project, strongly desired by local authorities, represents a significant step for water quality in the Canton of Ticino. The system, costing 1.8 million francs and entirely funded by the Confederation, was realized near the school center in the Boschetti area. The checks carried out have confirmed the effectiveness of the intervention, with the concentration of PFAS reduced to values below 2 ng/l, thus falling within the desired parameters.

The Municipality of Sant'Antonino has managed to complete a cutting-edge project, ranking among the first in Ticino and among the pioneers in Switzerland to adopt a solution of this kind. The Confederation recognized the investment after lengthy checks, attributing the groundwater contamination to the works related to the Monte Ceneri base tunnel. This intervention represents a concrete example of timely and effective management of an environmental criticality, protecting public health and the quality of the territory's resources.

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Operational details

Practical Analysis: What Changes for Cross-Border Workers

The installation of the new activated carbon filtration system in Sant'Antonino has a direct impact on the quality of life for cross-border workers residing or working in the area. The reduction of PFAS to levels below 2 ng/l represents a significant improvement compared to the previous situation, where contamination levels were above safety limits.

Health Implications

PFAS, or perfluoroalkyl substances, are chemical compounds that can have negative effects on human health. Their presence in drinking water can increase the risk of diseases and disorders, making their removal fundamental. With the new filtration system, cross-border workers can be certain that the water they consume is safe and meets quality standards.

Comparison with Other Solutions

The activated carbon filtration system is one of the most effective solutions for removing PFAS from drinking water. Unlike other methods, such as chlorination or ozonation, activated carbon is capable of removing a wide range of contaminants, offering a more comprehensive and durable solution. This type of filtration is particularly suitable for areas with high levels of contamination, such as Sant'Antonino, where works related to the Monte Ceneri base tunnel have contributed to groundwater contamination.

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Key points

Concrete actions for cross-border workers

For cross-border workers residing or working in the Sant'Antonino area, it is important to be informed about the procedures and measures adopted to ensure the quality of drinking water. Here are some concrete actions they can take:

1. Get informed at the Municipality

The Municipality of Sant'Antonino has made an assistance and information service available to citizens and cross-border workers. It is possible to contact the municipal office to obtain details about the new activated carbon filtration system, the checks carried out, and the results obtained. Additionally, cross-border workers can participate in public meetings and seminars organized by the Municipality to deepen their knowledge of the technologies used and the measures adopted to ensure water quality.

2. Monitor water quality

Cross-border workers can monitor the quality of drinking water in their area using tools and resources provided by the Municipality. It is possible to access updated reports and data on water quality through the Municipality's website or by directly contacting the municipal office. This allows them to always be informed about contamination levels and the measures adopted to ensure water safety.

3. Participate in local initiatives

The Municipality of Sant'Antonino regularly organizes initiatives and awareness campaigns on water quality and the environment. Cross-border workers can participate in these initiatives to stay updated on the latest news and to actively contribute to environmental protection. Participating in public meetings and seminars is an effective way to deepen knowledge of the technologies used and the measures adopted to ensure water quality.

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