TOKYO: Authorities in Osaka Prefecture have discovered high concentrations of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in groundwater in Kumatori Town, local media reported on Thursday (Feb 13), according to Xinhua.
At one well located within an industrial site, PFAS levels reached 73,000 nanograms per litre, 1,460 times the provisional target limit of 50 nanograms per litre, Japan's Daily News Mainichi reported, citing sources from the prefecture.
As the affected well is not used for drinking or household purposes, no health issues have been reported, according to the report, which did not disclose the reason for the high level.
In December 2024, an industrial facility in Kumatori detected 667 nanograms per litre of PFOS and PFOA, two common PFAS compounds. Further investigations have since identified even higher concentrations in certain locations.
PFAS encompasses over 10,000 synthetic chemicals, including perfluorooctanesulfonic acid and perfluorooctanoic acids, used in products like non-stick cookware and water-resistant clothing.
In its first health assessment of the substances in June last year, Japan's food safety panel concluded that the effects of PFAS on birthweight loss and reduced immunity are "undeniable", even though "evidence is limited" regarding the potential of PFAS to cause cancer. - Bernama/Xinhua
