Report

Concentrations of Trifluoroacetic Acid (TFA) in UK Surface Waters

A new report has uncovered extensive contamination of UK surface waters by Trifluoroacetic Acid (TFA), a persistent and mobile ultrashort chain PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance). The study, co-authored by Dr Lydia Niemi and Dr Mark Taggart of the Environmental Research Institute (ERI), is the first comprehensive investigation into TFA pollution in the UK.

Sampling across 54 locations on 32 rivers throughout all seasons, the study found that 98% of sites tested positive for TFA. One location reported the second-highest concentration of TFA ever recorded globally, and average levels across the UK were found to be among the highest worldwide when compared to similar studies.

The findings, published by environmental charity Fidra, highlight the urgent need for greater awareness and source control of these persistent chemicals in the environment.

The report has also gained national media attention, with coverage featured on the BBC: Toxic ‘Forever Chemical’ Found in Rivers Across UK

Read the full report here: Concentrations of Trifluoroacetic Acid (TFA) in UK Surface Waters