Toxic ‘Forever Chemicals’ Found in 98% of UK Rivers Pose Fertility Risk, Study Reveals

Widespread Presence of Fertility-Affecting ‘Forever Chemical’ Found in UK Rivers

A harmful chemical linked to fertility issues and developmental risks has been detected in 31 out of 32 major UK rivers, according to a study. Trifluoroacetic acid (TFA), a persistent “forever chemical” from the PFAS family, was identified in rivers across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. PFAS chemicals, notorious for their resistance to breaking down, are used in products like pesticides, refrigerants, and household items.

Key Findings

Researchers sampled 32 rivers, including the River Kelvin in Glasgow, which recorded TFA levels of 78,464 nanograms per litre—the second-highest global concentration ever detected. The only river without TFA was Scotland’s River Ness (flowing from Loch Ness). Other contaminated waterways included the River Bann in Northern Ireland and Cardiff Bay in Wales.

The River Kelvin in Glasgow showed the UK’s highest TFA levels—second highest globally.

Health and Environmental Risks

TFA is a breakdown product of PFAS, which mimic fatty acids in the body and disrupt hormones. Studies suggest prolonged exposure may harm fertility, fetal development, and liver function. Germany has flagged TFA’s reproductive toxicity after observing effects on animal fetuses, pushing the EU to consider stricter regulations.

Dr. David Behmann of Fidra, the study’s funder, warned: “TFA is entering our water systems unchecked. We need urgent action to restrict PFAS.”

Sources and Persistence

TFA enters waterways via pesticides, air conditioning refrigerants, and consumer products (e.g., cosmetics, cleaning agents). Once in the environment, it resists degradation, accumulating over time. Since 2000, Germany’s drinking water TFA levels have quadrupled, signaling a growing crisis.

The River Ness was the sole sampled river without TFA contamination.

Regulatory Gaps

The UK lacks TFA-specific regulations, though the Drinking Water Inspectorate has begun research into its sources. Water UK advocates banning PFAS entirely, urging manufacturers to cover cleanup costs.

Expert Calls for Action

Professor Alistair Boxall (University of York) emphasized: “TFA is ubiquitous. We’re drinking it daily, risking long-term exposure.” With no viable removal methods, experts stress preventing further contamination through PFAS restrictions.

The River Bann in Northern Ireland reflects widespread PFAS pollution.

Conclusion

The study underscores TFA’s pervasive spread and urgent need for policy intervention. As global PFAS use rises, safeguarding water systems and public health demands immediate regulatory measures—before irreversible damage occurs.

Major Contaminated Rivers:

• Scotland: Dee, Tay, Forth
• England: Tyne, Aire, Ouse
• Wales: Taff, Ogmore
• NI: Bann, Lagan

Data source: Fidra/University of York study.