Voorschoten Hopes for a Quick Start to the Limes Bubble Barrier

The recently completed feasibility study shows that the Limes Bubble Barrier is an effective method for removing plastics from the water and is technically feasible. This means that the implementation phase must now be made possible. The costs have been estimated. To finalize the financing model, the search for new partners and alternative sources of funding will continue in the coming period. The Coast Busters Foundation is expected to have another six months to accomplish this. After that, the Limes Bubble Barrier can be implemented, in part thanks to Voorschoten’s contribution.

Councilwoman Erika Spil (Waste and Environment): “The municipality of Voorschoten is happy to partner with regional initiatives to raise awareness of the plastic waste problem among students, tourists, foreign delegations, businesses, and other interested parties. Every little bit helps in putting a stop to plastic litter.”

On December 16, 2019, the municipality of Voorschoten, together with other municipalities in the Rijnland watershed, signed an agreement with the Rijnland Water Board and the Coast Busters Foundation to work toward the installation of an air bubble barrier (Limes Bubble Barrier) that captures plastic waste at the Katwijk drainage pumping station, thereby reducing plastic pollution in the sea.

Bubble Barrier

The Bubble Barrier is a tube placed on the bottom of a waterway. The tube has small holes through which air bubbles are blown using a pump. The upward movement of the bubbles causes debris in the water to rise to the surface. This bubble barrier is positioned diagonally across the natural flow of the water, so that the debris can be guided toward the bank. This makes it easy to scoop up the debris.