Researchers have discovered high levels of per-and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as forever chemicals, in surface and groundwater across the globe. Australia, along with China, Europe, and North America, is identified as one of the hotspots for these toxic substances. PFAS, which do not break down in the environment or the human body, have been used in various products such as firefighting foams, insecticides, food packaging, and cosmetics.
High levels of so-called forever chemicals have been found in surface and groundwater all over the world, with Australia one of several hotspots for toxicResearchers examined groundwater samples from around the world and found 69% had per-and poly-fluoroalkyl substances at levels above Canada’s safe drinking water criteria and 32% had levels higher than the US proposed drinking water hazard index.
They were dubbed forever chemicals because they do not break down in the environment or the human body. PFAS have been linked to cancers, thyroid disease, altered sex hormone levels, reduced kidney function and lower birth weight in babies, but have not been proven to cause these conditions. While surface and groundwater is usually filtered before it becomes drinking water, O’Carroll warned some water providers – including Sydney Water – did not routinely measure PFAS in drinking water.Our Australian afternoon update breaks down the key stories of the day, telling you what’s happening and why it matters“The source water is the source of our drinking water, so we should be concerned about PFAS or other chemicals we put into the environment,” he said.
People who live near sites where PFAS has been released into the environment in large amounts may have higher levels, especially if they have been drinking contaminated bore water.
Forever Chemicals PFAS Groundwater Contamination Toxic Substances Hotspots
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