Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as synthetic chemicals, are human-made compounds that provide products with enhanced resistance to heat, stains, grease, and water. PFAS encompasses approximately 14,000 manmade chemicals, including PFOA and PFOS. Recent news reports have raised concerns over the gradual contamination of Australian water sources by PFAS, including Darwin, Cairns, Canberra, Sydney and many more. Understanding the nature of PFAS and exploring potential measures to address its contamination are crucial steps forward. So, what is PFAS and what can we do about it?
PFAS can contaminate our drinking water system through various sources. These sources include household products such as non-stick frying pans, clothing, cosmetics, insecticides, and food packaging. Specialty industry products, particularly firefighting foam, also contribute to PFAS contamination. PFAS is also known as ‘forever chemicals’, as once they’re in the environment – or our bodies – they don’t degrade further.
The extent of forever chemicals’ presence in our water supply and their potential environmental and health effects, particularly in relation to certain cancers, remain poorly understood. Further research is necessary to determine the true scale and potential consequences of this issue, however, The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) who is part of the World Health Organization (WHO) has recently classified PFAS as carcinogenic to humans and likely have “no safe level of exposure”.
The surge in attention surrounding PFAS can be attributed to a study that examined numerous drinking water sites in Australia, uncovering the presence of PFAS in half of the samples analysed. Notably, some samples showed levels 635 times higher than Australian standards, which already surpass acceptable limits in countries like the United States and Canada. This alarming discrepancy has raised concerns among experts, prompting recommendations for Australians to consider using water filters to mitigate their exposure to PFAS in drinking water.
Adam Stockwell, Managing Director of Think Water Darwin, commented “PFAS contamination in Australia’s waterways is a significant concern for the water industry. As these chemicals persist in the environment, we are committed to working with regulatory bodies and communities to ensure water safety and explore innovative solutions to mitigate their impact. We are aware that traces of PFAS have been found in Northern Territory water supplies and our job is to address the problem and provide the appropriate filter options in an effort to increase your water quality and reduce exposure.”
So, is there any way to reduce or eliminate PFAS contaminants from our water? Studies have shown that filters containing activated carbon or reverse osmosis membranes have been shown to be effective at removing PFAS from water supplies. By installing an activated carbon or reverse-osmosis filtration system into your home, you can combat the levels of PFAS in your water.
If you have any questions, or would like to know more about PFAS and how to protect your water, please contact us at [email protected].
