Irene Navarro
Researcher at CIEMAT's Persistent Organic Pollutants and Emerging Contaminants in the Environment Unit
In this research, an extensive and worldwide dataset from 273 environmental studies was evaluated to provide per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) occurrence in water systems. PFAS levels obtained in 12,000 surface water and 33,900 groundwater samples were compared to threshold limits established in drinking water regulations and a notable percentage surpassed the reference values. These concentration limits should not be exceeded in order to protect human health and the environment. Results are of concern since surface and groundwaters may be treated by water treatment plants to generate tap water, where the presence of PFAS could have human health implications. Then, it is essential to point out the necessity for improving the water quality to preserve aquatic ecosystems and contribute to the progressive reduction of emissions of hazardous substances to water
Furthermore, concentrations in consumer and industrial products containing these compounds were investigated to improve knowledge and understanding of the source of PFAS contamination. The findings highlight that many studies quantify a limited number of PFAS without measuring important and prevalent compounds such as fluorotelomer alcohols (FTOH, which is an important PFAS present in consumer products). This fact emphasizes the need for conducting further research, particularly focusing on quantifying a broader range of PFAS in different environmental compartments so as not to underestimate their future environmental burden.