The European Commission is set to propose a landmark ban on two PFAS pesticides, flufenacet and flutolanil, informs the Pesticide Action Network (PAN) in a press release. In the past months, evidence has emerged about widespread water contamination by trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) in Europe. TFA, linked to reproductive toxicity, has been detected in rivers, tap water, and even pristine mineral waters across Europe, posing a significant threat to public health and the environment. PFAS pesticides are the primary source of TFA contamination in European groundwater and drinking water.
Recent studies highlight the pervasiveness of TFA pollution. Testing conducted by the Wallonie region in Belgium revealed TFA contamination in 93% of tap water samples. Similarly, a Swiss national study found elevated levels of TFA in groundwater. According to scientists, TFA concentrations in water are "orders of magnitude higher" than those of other PFAS chemicals and pesticides, underscoring its classification as a global threat.
Mineral water, often perceived as untouched by pollutants, has not been spared. PAN Europe testing found TFA in 10 out of 19 mineral water samples, with some readings exceeding safe thresholds by 32 times. The findings reveal TFA’s capacity to reach all environmental compartments.
Salomé Roynel, Policy Officer at PAN Europe, emphasized the urgency of the proposed ban: “The ban of these two PFAS pesticides proposed by the EU Commission is legally required and a crucial step towards reducing TFA emissions.”
PAN notes that large-scale removal of TFA using conventional drinking water treatment methods does not appear to be feasible, making source reduction critical. Scientists warn that continued emissions of TFA and its precursors will result in irreversible environmental damage, calling for binding actions to eliminate its use. If approved, the proposed ban will mark a pivotal step in safeguarding Europe’s water resources.
