PFAS

Widespread remediation of soil and groundwater is hardly feasible in the case of PFAS contamination. Remediation measures are limited to localised releases and hotspots. In the case of widespread contamination, only protective and restrictive measures (e.g. regarding land use) are currently being considered; however, these do not contribute to reducing the contamination levels.

Plants can absorb PFAS from contaminated soil as well as groundwater and irrigation. This results in PFAS entering the food chain.

PFAS are still widely used in firefighting foams. Given their problematic properties, the UBA recommends using fluorine-free alternatives. Firefighting foams containing fluorine should only be used in the event of fires for which no effective alternative exists.

PFAS have been detected in soil and groundwater in many locations across Germany. The causes of this contamination are varied. The use of fire-fighting foams containing PFAS often results in PFAS contamination at sites belonging to the German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr) and airports.

Some PFAS of market relevance and with properties of concern are regulated by the European REACH Regulation on chemicals, the CLP Regulation on the classification, labelling and packaging of chemicals, or the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs).

PFAS are used in a wide range of consumer products due to their water-, dirt- and grease-repellent properties. However, the attractive properties of PFAS also have a downside. What are the properties of PFAS that give cause for concern?

PFAS persist in the environment for a long time and are transported over long distances. They have even been detected in remote regions – such as the polar regions. There, they can accumulate along the food chains and cause toxic effects in organisms. As a result, they pose a risk to the sensitive ecosystems of the polar regions.

The conference “PFAS in soil – forever pollution, forever concern?” focused on soil pollution caused by PFAS. Some 150 participants from science, public institutions, industry and environmental organisations attended the conference and 200 more joined via live stream to discuss the risks, in particular for human health. More international cooperation is needed to tackle this problem effectively.