Have 'forever chemicals' been detected in UK water and fish?

Yes, recent government monitoring detected PFAs in approximately 80 per cent of surface water, half of groundwater, and all fish samples.

What are the criticisms of the UK's PFAs strategy?

Critics argue the strategy is disappointing because it does not ban all PFAs manufacturing and use, lacks binding phase-outs, and does not match the EU's comprehensive ban.

Home / Environment / Government Tackles PFAs: Legal Limits Proposed

Government Tackles PFAs: Legal Limits Proposed

Q: What is the UK government's new strategy for 'forever chemicals'?

The UK government has launched its first strategy to tackle PFAs, proposing legal limits for them in drinking water and aiming to minimize public and ecological exposure.

3 Feb

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Summary

UK government launches its first strategy to combat 'forever chemicals'.
Proposes legal limits for PFAs in drinking water following detection in samples.
Strategy aims to reduce exposure but faces criticism for not banning all PFAs.

Government Tackles PFAs: Legal Limits Proposed

The UK government has introduced its first-ever strategy to tackle "forever chemicals," known as PFAs, proposing legal limits for them in drinking water. These chemicals are prevalent in everyday items and persist for centuries, accumulating in organisms and posing risks.

Government monitoring detected PFAs in 80% of surface water, half of groundwater, and all fish samples. The new plan, published on Tuesday, outlines steps for various bodies to understand and minimize PFAs entry and spread.

Key proposals include a consultation later this year on establishing a statutory limit for PFAs in England's public water supply. Ministers assert the UK's drinking water quality is high, with water companies already reporting high PFAs concentrations. A legal limit would empower regulators to take enforcement action.