Defence Online

How Veolia is helping the defence sector dispose of AFFF

June 2, 2026

With extensive hazardous waste expertise, Veolia has the capabilities to collect and dispose of AFFF for the UK defence sector.

Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) has long been used for tackling flammable liquid fires, especially in high-risk industrial environments, including the UK defence sector. However, since July 2025, AFFF containing perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) – a type of Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS), has been banned by the UK Government due to the damage that studies suggest it may cause to both the environment and human health.

AFFF is commonly used as a firefighting foam and has been used for a number of years by the UK military. With further restrictions anticipated to cover other PFAS-based foams in the future, disposing of AFFF is a significant issue for the MOD and its supply chain.

How can Veolia help dispose of AFFF?

In response to the UK’s ban on AFFF containing PFAS, Veolia offers specialised AFFF disposal solutions designed to help industries comply with the latest regulations and ensure environmental safety. This service safely disposes of AFFF-containing items, including fire extinguishers and fire suppressants.

Veolia’s Ellesmere Port High Temperature Incinerator (HTI) has been permitted by the Environment Agency to handle the disposal of AFFF, allowing Veolia to help the UK defence sector to comply with regulations. The facility is one of the most technically advanced in Europe and offers the highest level of secure destruction for some of the most hazardous wastes, including low-level radioactive and clinical waste materials.

The facility holds ISO9001, ISO14001, ISO 45001:2018, and ISO22301 accreditation, ensuring your hazardous waste is collected, treated, and disposed of safely and efficiently. Veolia uses high temperature incineration solutions which have been shown to achieve up to 99.9999% Destruction Rate Efficiency (DRE) for targeted PFAS. Our AFFF disposal service not only disposes of your waste, but also ensures that you are meeting government regulations. This is one of many services Veolia provides to help the MoD and its supply chain deal with complex utilities management. From waste and hazardous waste management to energy optimisation and decommissioning, Veolia has a comprehensive portfolio of solutions that can help the UK defence sector become more sustainable, efficient and resource resilient.

Want to know more about PFAS? Veolia’s useful PFAS and AFFF hubs will answer all your questions. 

Do you have PFAS that needs to be safely disposed of? Contact Veolia’s waste experts to discuss your needs today.

Post written by: Vicky Maggiani

Vicky has worked in media for over 25 years and has a wealth of experience in editing and creating copy for a variety of sectors.