What’s going on here?
It has been uncovered that PFAS (Per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances), a group of chemicals widely known as forever chemicals, are swimming in our water systems. In the UK, 278 water samples were found to be above expected PFAS levels, whilst in Europe over 23,000 sites were found to be contaminated and in the US 95 million people may be drinking contaminated drinking water.
What does this mean?
PFAS are a widespread group of chemicals famed for their durability. It is this durability which is their downfall, as they cannot be degraded without human intervention. This means they reside and accumulate.
Products containing PFAS range from greaseproof paper, waterproof jackets and non-stick pans, all items that can be bought in your local supermarket. PFAS seep into our environments through direct (illegal) dumping, into groundwater from landfill, or from burning and waste incineration. PFAS have been found in our waters, oceans, air, soil, wildlife and bloodstreams.
In addition, PFAS are known to cause a variety of human and animal health impacts including cancer (kidney and testicular), hormone disruption, and reproductive issues.
Why should we care?
In September 2024, after more than five years, the EU restricted two subgroups of PFAS, banning the sale and use of products containing PFHxA and PFHxA-related substances, including takeaway containers, waterproofing sprays and some firefighting foams.
However, the length of time taken to put bans on just two substances has faced criticism, calling for a wider group ban from several EU member states. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development definition of PFAS includes fluoropolymers. Plastic industry groups have lobbied against this as fluoropolymers are widespread in plastic products.
Furthermore, the UK has decided against taking on the OECD definition of PFAS, determining that it will create its own smaller groups for definitions of what can be banned. This is likely because of lobbying from PFAS manufacturers.
Failure to impose bans and restrictions on the sale of PFAS products will lead to greater pollution in our environments and bodies. The Forever Pollution Lobbying Project conducted an investigation into PFAS Pollution across Europe, it is championing greater cohesive action.
Be Curious!
- Consider getting a water filter jug, research at The University of Birmingham found that using a water filter can reduce PFAS concentrations in drinking water by 50 to 90%.
- Check out the Forever Pollution Lobbying Project
- Check out ‘Otterley alarming: toxic chemicals found in Britain’s favourite top predator” from the curious archives
Featured image by Manki Kim via Unsplash
