High levels of toxic ‘forever chemicals’ found off coast of southern England
Summary
Scientists found high levels of toxic chemicals called PFAS, or "forever chemicals," in the soil, water, and sea life in the Solent strait off southern England. These chemicals come from wastewater plants, landfills, and military sites, and many samples had pollution much higher than safe limits. The UK government plans to study this problem more and consider limits, while the EU is moving toward banning most PFAS chemicals.Key Facts
- PFAS are long-lasting chemicals used in products like non-stick pans, waterproof clothes, and food packaging.
- Researchers found PFAS pollution up to 13 times above safe levels in some water samples from the Solent strait.
- The chemicals entered the environment mainly from treated wastewater from Southern Water's plants, as well as from old landfills and military areas near the coast.
- Many marine animals, like fish and porpoises, had PFAS levels above legal limits, and most English surface waters failed a new EU test for combined chemical toxicity.
- Wastewater plants currently cannot remove PFAS from water, making bans at the source important to stop pollution.
- The European Union is planning a wide ban on PFAS, except for some critical uses like medicine.
- The UK government said it will consult on setting PFAS limits and publish a plan to understand and reduce exposure to these chemicals.
- Environmental groups stress the need for strong action and better monitoring of combined chemical effects.
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