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The European Commission appreciates the Polish innovative salt absorption system ODSALAX

Winter de-icing of roads and pavements is associated with the introduction of large amounts of sodium chloride into the environment, which is harmful to soil, groundwater and plant growth. Innovative mats invented by Polish research company ALCOR from Opole, with the participation of the W. Szafer Institute of Botany of the Polish Academy of Sciences, absorb a significant amount of phytotoxic salt, protecting urban greenery. The ODSALAX system consists of a biodegradable, natural absorber made of appropriately prepared basket willow (Salix viminalis L.) chips and protective trays laid out in winter, for example around trees. The system uses willow's natural ability to absorb brine and retain salt, which has been documented in urban conditions. Recently, information about the system has been presented on the website of the European Commission.

See also the Polish research company ALCOR website.

Urban multi-story buildings in winter. The ground around a tree planted just off the street is covered with rectangular mats

ODSALAX on the streets of Oslo.
Photo: Jarosław Kozak.

Single-family suburban housing in autumn. Rectangular mats lie on the ground around trees planted along the street

ODSALAX on the streets of Oslo.
Photo: Jarosław Kozak.

Square tray made of black plastic, with rows of recesses filled with shredded wood, covered with plastic mesh

ODSALAX system tray with visible willow chips.
Photo: Jarosław Kozak.