Sydney Tap Water Contaminated with ‘Forever Chemicals’
A recent analysis of Sydney’s tap water has revealed the presence of at least 31 PFAS chemicals, including 21 previously unrecorded in Australian tap water, and one detected globally for the first time.
Researchers from the University of New South Wales (UNSW) have identified the PFAS chemicals in Sydney’s tap water, highlighting the need for broader monitoring and regulatory action.
While current exposure levels are considered low, the scientists warn that the presence of these ‘forever chemicals’ poses a long-term health risk.
PFAS Chemicals: A Growing Concern
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are dubbed ‘forever chemicals’ because they don’t break down naturally and persist in the environment and human body for decades.
While they can be a health concern, current exposure through drinking water in Australia is generally considered low.
However, global authorities continue to monitor and reassess their safety.
PFAS compounds have been widely used in firefighting foams, non-stick cookware, waterproof materials, and industrial manufacturing.
The detection of PFAS near airports, military bases, and landfills has triggered a tightening of regulations worldwide.
Study Findings
The researchers analysed 32 tap water and 10 bottled water samples taken from the Sydney water catchment areas.
They found PFOS, a legacy firefighting foam chemical and known carcinogen, in some North Richmond samples with a reading of 6 parts per trillion (ppt), which is 2 ppt below Australia’s guidelines of 8 ppt, but higher than the US EPA’s advisory limit of 4 ppt.
The study also detected 3:3 FTCA, a short-chain breakdown product from firefighting foams, for the first time in Australian drinking water.
Additionally, the researchers found 6:2 diPAP, a PFAS chemical previously detected in bottled water and other consumer environments, but not in tap water globally.
Implications and Recommendations
The researchers recommend expanding PFAS monitoring across Australia, including a nationwide survey to assess PFAS levels in both urban and remote areas.
They also suggest broadening monitoring to include more PFAS compounds, which would help generate more comprehensive data tracking over time.
Furthermore, the researchers highlight the need for new technologies to remove PFAS before their release into ecosystems and drinking water supply.
They note that regulating PFAS as a class, rather than individually, could help reduce the regulatory burden and provide a more proactive approach to the issue.
The study’s findings have significant implications for the management of PFAS in Australia and globally.
As the researchers caution, ‘we are stuck in a whack-a-mole situation with PFAS,’ and a more comprehensive approach is needed to address the growing concern of these ‘forever chemicals’ in our environment and drinking water supply.