The class of chemicals are found in products such as non-stick pans, food packaging, and firefighting foam, and are known as ‘forever chemicals’ as they do not break down easily and are difficult to destroy.
They have been linked to a number of different diseases, including cancer.
‘It is highly likely that the limit for these chemicals in drinking water will drop further in the future, if that is the case Guernsey water will ensure the limits are not breached in our drinking water,’ said a Guernsey Water spokesman.
‘The Pfas limit is the same in Guernsey as the UK, Jersey and the EU. The levels are closely monitored in Guernsey across all our water sources and treatment works. The amounts detected are published each year in our annual report and we have not breached the standard in our drinking water.’
In its 2020 annual water quality report, the utility said that the current status of Pfos contamination, which comprises the majority component Pfas, was favourable when compared to other similar jurisdictions. The report stated that the chemicals remained a significant challenge in catchment and storage management, particularly during periods of drought.
Drinking water must not contain more than 100 nanograms of Pfas chemicals per litre, which some UK experts believe is too high.
Guernsey Water’s compliance with water standards was 99.95% in 2020, which was its best year since reports began in 2011.
Each year water pollution audits are carried out to reduce the risk of contaminants making their way into the island’s water supply.
The States launched a legal case against a fire-fighting foam producer in 2015. Pfos was a component in the foam used at Guernsey and Alderney airports from the 1970s until 2000. It resulted in groundwater contamination and it was argued the chemical could be dangerous. After the case was taken to the High Court in London, before the States dropped the action, and paid legal costs of £8m.
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