A new scientific investigation has uncovered widespread contamination of the United Kingdom's waterways by a persistent and potentially harmful man-made substance. The study reveals that trifluoroacetic acid (TFA), a type of PFAS 'forever chemical', is present in the vast majority of sampled rivers, streams, and lakes across the nation.
Alarming Scale of Contamination
The research, which analysed water from 32 different locations, detected TFA in 31 of the sites. This near-universal presence highlights the pervasive nature of this environmental pollutant. One location stood out for its extreme levels: Glasgow's River Kelvin was found to have one of the highest concentrations of TFA recorded anywhere in the world, signalling a severe localised pollution event.
Sources and Pathways of the Pollution
TFA enters the environment through several routes. It is directly used in certain pesticides and pharmaceutical products. However, scientists identify its primary source as a by-product from manufacturing F-gases. These F-gases are powerful greenhouse gases commonly used in refrigeration and air-conditioning systems. Due to its chemical properties, TFA is both highly mobile in water and incredibly persistent, earning it and other PFAS compounds the nickname 'forever chemicals'.
Unknown Risks and Regulatory Gaps
The presence of these chemicals poses a significant but not yet fully understood threat. There is growing evidence that TFA can cause adverse effects on aquatic life and mammals. However, the long-term consequences of human exposure through potential drinking water contamination remain largely unknown. A critical concern raised by the report is the current lack of safeguards in the UK: there are no official guidelines for safe levels of TFA in drinking water, and water companies do not routinely test for it.
This regulatory gap exists despite a clear potential pathway for the chemical to enter the water supply. The report's authors, including researcher Daniel Drage, emphasise the urgent need for assessment by both scientists and regulators to understand the full implications for public and environmental health and to establish necessary safety limits.
