Netherlands Urgently Requests Decrease in Permanent German Chemical Substances in the Rhine
Dutch water providers, relying on the Rhine for water production, have urged Federal Environment Minister Steffi Lemke to restrict the release of perpetual chemicals, often referred to as 'PFAS', into the Rhine. Currently, Germany is not adhering to domestic and European water quality standards by permitting the discharge of these PFAS at the current rate, as stated by the Rhine River Waterworks Association (RIWA-Rijn).
The Netherlands anticipates a rise in demand for clean drinking water in the near future, yet the price of acquiring it is rising due to industrial discharges in Germany. "PFAS compounds are so harmful that they should be banned across Europe, a stance we support," mentioned RIWA-Rijn Director Gerard Stroomberg.
"We implore the Minister to set discharge limits for PFAS compounds in the Rhine before the ban takes effect." The water supply for five million Dutch inhabitants necessitates the highest level of protection.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) do not originate naturally and can persist for an extraordinarily long time, dependent on the specific substance. They can also accumulate gradually over time. This category of substances is believed to encompass more than 10,000 different chemicals, numerous which are highly toxic, particularly harmful to child development. PFAS are suspected of causing liver damage, along with kidney and testicular cancer.
Given their unique properties, these substances find use in a vast array of products, from raincoats to cookware to cosmetics. The European Union is engaging in discussions to ban PFAS with some allowances. Industry groups view this as a potential threat to high-tech industries.
Other countries in Europe should also consider urgent action to limit PFAS discharge, given the potential health risks. Including PFAS compounds in wastewater treatment processes could help reduce their impact on the Rhine and other water bodies.
