Scientists are urging the UK to align with the European Union in regulating PFAS chemicals, which persist in the environment and pose significant health risks.
Rachel Salvidge and Leana Hosea report for The Guardian.
In short:
- The UK has been criticized for its lenient approach to regulating PFAS chemicals, which are nearly indestructible and linked to serious health problems, including cancer.
- While the EU proposes a broad ban on non-essential PFAS, the UK plans to regulate smaller subgroups and exclude some, such as fluoropolymers, from stricter oversight.
- Experts warn that delaying action on PFAS increases long-term environmental and health risks, as these chemicals accumulate over time and are difficult to remove.
Key quote:
“Every day of delay adds to this toxic timebomb. The UK government has all the evidence it needs to take immediate action to protect people and nature from the harmful impacts of these forever chemicals.”
— Dr. Shubhi Sharma, Chem Trust
Why this matters:
PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, have emerged as a pressing environmental and public health concern, infiltrating water supplies, food chains and even the bloodstreams of most humans. Often referred to as "forever chemicals" because they break down incredibly slowly, PFAS are used in a wide range of consumer products, from nonstick cookware and waterproof clothing to firefighting foam and food packaging. Without stronger action to curb ongoing releases and address existing contamination, these chemicals will continue to pose risks to ecosystems and human health for generations.
Read more: Residents may file first legal case over PFAS contamination in the UK
