Canadian Army to Host NATO’s First PFAS Treatment Technology Test Bed

Article / November 18, 2025 / National Defence

The Canadian Army is pleased to announce that it will host the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO)’s first Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Treatment Technology Test Bed at a Canadian Army establishment in 2026.

PFAS are a group of toxic and persistent chemicals that pose operational, environmental, and human-health challenges for defence. Their use in firefighting foams has created the need for innovative, science-based treatment approaches to support sustainable operations across defence establishments, including range and training areas.

To address this need, the NATO Science and Technology Organization (STO) has launched an international initiative to evaluate PFAS treatment technologies and advance practical solutions for defence. The Test Bed will bring together leading innovators and experts from industry, academia, and government for a demonstration of technologies under controlled conditions using PFAS-impacted soils provided by the Canadian Army. Eligible participants may take part in technology testing or contribute through a supporting role. Test results will be evaluated by a panel of experts and shared at a three-day seminar hosted by the Canadian Army in 2026.

Why Participate

Participants will:

• Test and validate their PFAS treatment technologies on defence contaminated soils
• Contribute to NATO-wide evaluations of treatment performance and operational suitability
• Engage directly with NATO experts, government stakeholders, and end-users
• Shape the development of future PFAS initiatives for defence contexts

How to Submit an Expression of Interest

Eligible organizations, academic institutions, and government representatives interested in participating are invited to review the call letter and submit an expression of interest by 28 November 2025.

Together, we can advance sustainable, field-ready PFAS solutions for defence