US, China, Australia identified as hotspots for harmful ‘forever chemicals’, says news study

A recent study, published in Nature Geoscience, showed alarming concentrations of persistent "forever chemicals" in surface and groundwater globally. Hotspots included Australia, the United States, and Europe. These chemicals, known as PFAS, are commonly found in everyday products like non-stick pans and food packaging. Despite their ubiquitous presence, PFAS have been linked to serious health problems such as cancer and birth defects. The study, analysing 45,000 water samples worldwide, found many exceeded recommended PFAS levels, posing potential risks to human health, especially in water sources used for drinking.

These chemicals, found everywhere from turtle eggs to Antarctic snow, were also detected in surface water and groundwater, which humans rely on for drinking.

"Many of our source waters are above PFAS regulatory limits," Denis O'Carroll, one of the study's authors and a professor at the University of New South Wales in Australia told AFP.

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O'Carroll noted that while it was previously understood that the numerous varieties of forever chemicals were widespread in the environment, he was surprised by the significantly higher sampled levels compared to recommended thresholds.

Other findings from the study

The study revealed that 69 percent of groundwater samples worldwide exceeded Canada's minimum standards for PFAS, with six percent surpassing the EU's standard.

Australia, China, the United States, and parts of Europe emerged as global hotspots with elevated PFAS concentrations.

Despite concentrated testing in certain areas, the study saidthat comparable results could be found worldwide with more extensive research.

While PFAS is recognised as a global issue, the full extent of contamination in surface areas and water supplies remains uncertain.

(With inputs from agencies)