A chemical compound from the PFAS family, trifluoroacetic acid (TFA), has been detected in groundwater as well as in drinking water in Switzerland, reveal the latest analyzes from the Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN) . An alarming observation highlighted by the On en Parle investigation.
This is the first time that the OFEV has analyzed the presence of TFA in groundwater and the observation is clear: this molecule, trifluoroacetic acid, is present throughout the territory, particularly in the plains and in areas urban. Resulting from the degradation of pesticides and cooling gases, TFA is nicknamed an “eternal pollutant” because of its extreme persistence.
The presence of this chemical compound worries many environmental NGOs. Its effects on humans are not yet well known, but scientific studies show that, in animals, this substance is toxic to the liver and can cause reproductive risks.
>> Read also: What solutions to the daily presence of PFAS?
“Time bomb”
In Switzerland, there is no legal basis which prohibits the use of this molecule. In addition, there is currently no solution for filtering TFA from drinking water. Its microscopic size makes it impossible to eliminate by conventional filtration systems, as explained by the FOEN, which however did not wish to answer the RTS’s questions.
For national councilor Delphine Klopfenstein-Broggini (Green/GE), this mapping must serve as an electric shock. “It’s a time bomb. We must take this issue very seriously. This means adapting our laws to limit the use of these products as much as possible. All sectors must make an effort, but for that, we need support of the Confederation”, she declared Tuesday in La Matinale.
It calls for action at the source by reducing the production of TFA and other PFAS. While sanitation measures will be necessary, the priority, according to her, is to prevent these substances from entering the environment.
Camille Lanci/hkr
Business
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