A chemical that scientists fear could affect human reproduction has been detected in rivers across the UK.

Researchers from the University of York analysed samples from 32 rivers across all four nations of the UK and found traces of trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) at 98% of the test sites.

TFA is what is known as a “forever chemical”, meaning it breaks down extremely slowly in the environment and therefore accumulates over time.

As with other “forever chemicals”, also referred to as PFAS, the precise level of threat they pose to human health and the concentrations at which they become dangerous are still being investigated.

However, scientists in Germany, having studied the effects of TFA on animals, are calling for it to be classified as toxic to reproduction.

TFA forms when synthetic substances from other “forever chemicals”—such as those found in pesticides and refrigerants—partially degrade.

“This molecule (TFA) is everywhere,” Alistair Boxall, professor of Environmental Science at the University of York who carried out the research, told the BBC. “We will all be drinking water containing TFA every day – so we’ll be exposed throughout our lifetime. It’s that long-term, low level exposure that is the big concern.”

This new study, funded by the environmental charity Fidra, involved sampling five rivers in Wales, three in Northern Ireland, 14 in Scotland, and 10 in northern England. The highest concentration was recorded in the River Kelvin in Glasgow.

The River Ness, which flows from Loch Ness to the Moray Firth, was the only river tested where no traces of TFA were found.

Recent studies across the EU have shown TFA to be widespread, having been found in wine, food, human blood, and breast milk.

Authorities in Germany have taken a keen interest in rising TFA levels in drinking water. Over the past two decades, its concentration has quadrupled, prompting researchers to explore what—if any—impact it may have on human health.

Citing scientific studies showing that TFA can affect rabbit and rat foetuses, German Federal Environment Agency (UBA) has submitted an application to the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) for TFA to be classified as toxic for reproduction and harmful to the environment. This could eventually lead to EU-level recommendations on how products containing TFA should be regulated.

“Currently, there are no expected adverse health effects from consuming water or food contaminated with TFA,” said Andreas Hensel, president of the German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR). “The new classification is an important step in preparing further measures to ensure that this remains the case in the future”.

At present, there are no UK regulations in place to identify or limit the concentrations of TFA in either the environment or public water supplies.

However, in light of growing concern, the Drinking Water Inspectorate—which oversees the quality of drinking water in England and Wales—has commissioned new research. The study will assess current levels of TFA in drinking water and evaluate any associated risks.

“The information signposted by the University of York suggests that TFA can be formed from the degradation of PFAS-containing pesticides,” a spokesperson for the Drinking Water Inspectorate, told the BBC. “It is important that the fate of pesticides and other chemicals in the environment is understood, in order to protect drinking water sources.”

A spokesperson for Water UK, which represents the UK’s water companies, told the BBC: “We want to see PFAS, including TFA, banned and the development of a national plan to remove it from the environment which should be paid for by manufacturers.”

 

 

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