Toxic ‘forever’ chemicals found in excessive levels in global groundwater, study says

By Sandee LaMotte | CNN | April 8, 2024

Read the full article by Sandee LaMotte (CNN)

"Potentially toxic chemicals called PFAS (perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are found in surface and groundwaters around the world at levels much higher than many international regulators allow, a new study found.

Called “forever chemicals” because they fail to break down fully in the environment, PFAS have been used since the 1950s to make consumer products nonstick, oil- and water-repellent and resistant to temperature change.

Even in locations with no known source of contamination, 31% of ground water samples exceeded threshold limits proposed in March 2023 by the US Environmental Protection Agency, according to the study, and nearly 70% exceeded standards set by Health Canada."

Topics:

• ChemicalsPFAS
• Products
• Sources
• Environment
• Wildlife
• ImpactDrinking water
• ImpactDrinking waterPrivate wells
• Affected community
• Health
• Measurement Techniques
• Monitoring Data
• PFAS Uses
• Disposal