The urgency surrounding the issue of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), colloquially dubbed ‘forever chemicals,’ has reached a fever pitch in the UK, thanks to a recent Policy Position Statement (PPS) issued by CIWEM, the Chartered Institution of Water and Environmental Management. These synthetic chemicals, which have infiltrated our water systems from a myriad of sources—think firefighting foams, water-repellent fabrics, and even ski wax—are not just a nuisance. They represent a ticking time bomb for our environment and public health.
The crux of the matter lies in the outrageous persistence of PFAS in the environment. Once released, these chemicals don’t just pack up and leave; they linger, contaminating water and soil long after their initial introduction. The unfortunate reality is that even if we clamp down on the immediate sources of PFAS, the legacy pollution continues to wreak havoc. As Alastair Chisholm, CIWEM’s Director of Policy, aptly puts it, “While drinking water accounts for less than 20% of our PFAS exposure, these chemicals impact every step of the water and wastewater cycle, posing serious challenges across the board.”
This multi-faceted problem requires a multi-pronged solution. CIWEM’s PPS lays out an eight-point plan that aims to tackle PFAS head-on. The first and perhaps most critical point is the introduction of a polluter-pays system. This means holding PFAS producers financially accountable for the pollution they create, alleviating the financial burden placed on water companies. It’s high time we shifted the costs of cleanup onto those who have profited from these hazardous substances, rather than letting it fall solely on the shoulders of water utilities.
Standardizing detection methods for PFAS is another crucial step. The sheer number of PFAS compounds, each with its own unique chemical structure, complicates testing and remediation efforts. Establishing uniform detection methods will not only streamline the process but also ensure that as technology advances, we keep pace with emerging threats.
Chisholm emphasizes the need for immediate action, stating, “The science is clear. PFAS are here to stay if we don’t act. We need immediate, coordinated efforts to address this growing environmental threat.” This urgency is echoed in the call for targeted bans on non-essential PFAS, funding for research into safer alternatives, and comprehensive monitoring of our water systems.
Moreover, the health risks associated with PFAS cannot be overstated. Studies have linked these chemicals to serious conditions, including liver and thyroid damage, elevated cholesterol levels, and even increased risks of certain cancers. The implications for public health are staggering, especially when considering the potential harm during fetal development.
CIWEM’s PPS is not just a document; it’s a rallying cry for action. By advocating for measures like mandatory PFAS monitoring in biosolids and product labeling, the institution aims to empower consumers and water companies alike to make informed decisions. The call to share the Environment Agency’s PFAS contamination risk map with water companies could serve as a game changer, enabling better-informed strategies to combat this pervasive menace.
As we stand on the brink of a potential crisis, the water industry must heed this warning. The future of our water systems, our health, and indeed our environment hangs in the balance. The time for talk is over; it’s time for action.
