As part of the EU-funded FIC-FIGHTERS project, ALDA reaffirmed its commitment to engaging citizens in discussions on phosphogypsum (PG) stacks at the local level. The project’s main goal is to promote a circular and systemic approach to regenerating PG stacks across Europe.
Spotlight on Barreiro
The PG stack in Barreiro (Portugal), located on the south bank of the Tagus River, is one of the project’s six case studies. Once one of Portugal’s major industrial hubs, Barreiro accumulated large quantities of phosphogypsum — a hazardous byproduct of phosphoric acid production — between 1950 and 1989.
Stored in open-air lagoons and piles across the municipality, these deposits have remained without proper remediation for decades, leaving behind pollution, environmental risk, and untapped economic potential.
After years of insufficient communication and uncertainty for nearby residents, FIC-FIGHTERS successfully brought together local communities, scientists, and policymakers to openly discuss the issue of the “white mountains” — the phosphogypsum stacks that have concerned generations.
Workshop Highlights: “Voices for Change”
On 11 November 2025, in collaboration with the Municipality of Barreiro and At Clave, ALDA organised the second Citizen Engagement Workshop: “Voices for Change: Exploring Solutions for the PG Stack in Barreiro.”
The workshop gathered 15 participants from diverse professional backgrounds, age groups, and genders, creating a rich space for discussion about the environmental, social, and economic impacts of the PG stack.
Key Concerns and Expectations Raised by Citizens
Citizens expressed several key concerns, notably the limited access to information regarding the phosphogypsum environmental liability and persistent doubts about whether the PG stack issue will ever be effectively resolved or the area fully restored. Many also voiced worries about the pollution affecting the river, air, and soil, as well as the associated health impacts, particularly respiratory conditions and psychological distress.
On the other hand, they expressed a strong desire to participate, advocate and contribute actively to the city’s development, with a shared objective of seeing the PG stack area restored and returned to the community. Looking toward the future, they envision improved environmental conditions and a significant reduction in pollution, ideally through the transformation of the PG stack into a green, accessible, and recreational public space.
Way forward
The workshop had an empowering effect, giving participants the tools and confidence to become more active in community matters. Citizens expressed a clear willingness to be involved in future decision-making processes and to contribute to local transformation.
ALDA remains committed to supporting the FIC-FIGHTERS project by promoting local democracy and participatory processes. In 2026, a new round of citizen engagement workshops will take place across Europe and beyond. Stay tuned for more updates on workshop outcomes and upcoming activities through the FIC-FIGHTERS website and social media channels!
