A new research study published today has found widespread Trifluoroacetic Acid (TFA) “forever chemical” contamination in UK rivers - some locations had concentrations among the highest ever recorded globally.
The research study by Scotland-based environment NGO Fidra and the University of York monitored TFA concentrations at 54 locations covering 32 rivers across the UK and throughout all seasons. The study aimed to determine whether TFA was present in UK surface waters and to establish the degree of contamination compared to findings in other countries.
PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of man-made chemicals that have been used in a wide variety of products since the 1940s due to their ability to repel water, grease, and stains.
TFA, a highly mobile and persistent ultrashort chain PFAS, was detected in 98% of sites tested across UK rivers. Some locations had concentrations among the highest ever recorded globally. PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals that have been used in a wide variety of products since the 1940s due to their ability to repel water, grease, and stains
The results highlight the urgent need for the UK Government to take action and align with the EU’s proposed universal PFAS restriction to safeguard both public health and the environment.
Key findings include:
- This is the first comprehensive investigation into TFA contamination in UK surface water.
- 98% of the 54 sites tested were found to be contaminated with TFA.
- One site reported the second-highest level of TFA contamination ever recorded globally.
- Average TFA concentrations in the UK are at the higher end of the global scale when compared to similar studies.
- The widespread detection of TFA across UK waterways highlights the urgent need for source control.
Click here to access the full study
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