Bans on dangerous PFAS substances have shown results in Sweden’s major lakes. However, levels still remain above limit values in Lake Vättern.
PFAS are environmental toxins often called “forever chemicals” because they break down very slowly and therefore accumulate in soil, water, animals and even humans.
Certain PFAS substances can be harmful to humans, with several studies having pointed to their potential to cause cancer, liver damage, impaired reproductive ability, intestinal diseases and thyroid disorders, among other health issues.
It was recently discovered that Swedish wild animals have unusually high levels of these substances, with forest voles among others likely suffering liver damage due to the forever chemicals.
Decreased since the 2000s
In a new study conducted by the Swedish Museum of Natural History, commissioned by the Water Conservation Associations, researchers measured the occurrence of these substances in fish in Swedish lakes. This was done using samples from the museum’s environmental sample bank, which dates back to the early 1970s.
The results show that PFAS levels have generally decreased in Swedish lakes. In Lake Mälaren and Lake Vänern, levels have decreased since the early 2000s, and in Lake Vättern since 2008.
Problems remain
The reason for the decrease is believed to be the international banning of the most well-known PFAS substances. However, Arctic char in Lake Vättern still exceed the Water Framework Directive’s limit value for PFOS, one of the PFAS substances that has been banned.
— Our results show that measures and bans have had an effect, but also that the PFAS problem is far from solved, says Suzanne Faxneld from the Environmental Analysis and Research unit at the Swedish Museum of Natural History, in a press release.
Stricter limit values for these chemicals are now being discussed in the EU. If these are implemented, Faxneld believes that Sweden’s major lakes will exceed the new limit values. The study shows that preparations should be made for stricter regulations from the EU.
— It’s also very important to prevent these substances from entering the environment in the first place, she says.
