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A concerning discovery has been made in rivers all across the United Kingdom, where traces of trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) have been found by researchers from York University. This chemical, also known as a “forever chemical,” breaks down at an extremely slow rate in nature, leading to its accumulation over time. While the exact threat that TFA poses to human health is still under investigation, scientists in Germany are pushing for it to be classified as toxic for reproduction based on its effects on animals.
TFA is formed when synthetic chemicals from other “forever chemicals” break down, such as those found in pesticides and refrigerants. Alistair Boxall, a professor of Environmental Science at the University of York, highlighted the omnipresence of TFA, stating that the general population will be exposed to it daily through water consumption. The University of York’s research, which was supported by environmental charity Fidras, involved sampling in rivers across Wales, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and the north of England. The highest concentration of TFA was found in the River Kelvin in Glasgow, while the River Ness was the only sampled river without traces of the chemical.
Recent studies conducted in the EU have detected TFA in various sources, including wine, food, human blood, and breast milk. Concerns have been raised in Germany as TFA levels in drinking water have quadrupled over the past two decades. The German Federal Environment Agency has sought to have TFA classified as toxic for reproduction and harmful to the environment by the European Chemicals Agency, citing studies that have shown adverse effects on animal foetuses. Despite the lack of regulations in the UK regarding TFA concentrations, the Drinking Water Inspectorate is embarking on its own research to assess the presence and risks associated with TFA in drinking water supplies. Water UK is advocating for the banning of PFAS, including TFA, and the implementation of a national strategy to eliminate these chemicals from the environment
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