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Trifluoroacetic acid (TFA), an extremely persistent PFAS compound, can be detected in Swiss surface waters and groundwater almost everywhere. Current knowledge about the sources of contamination, potential health effects and the limitations of water treatment leads to a clear conclusion: Anyone wishing to limit contamination in the long term must tackle the problem at the source.

The Ecotox Centre, together with other researchers, contributed to and coordinated a statement by the Swiss Academies of Arts and Sciences. The researchers welcome the introduction of a new maximum limit in drinking water for four critical PFAS compounds, but state that the limit is several times too high. Furthermore, they argue that the newly permitted practice of mixing highly contaminated foodstuffs is inadequate for ensuring the protection of public health.

Last weekend, Alexandra Kroll supported Empa and provided the public with information on PFAS and their impact on the environment.