Animals, including dolphins and otters, are being affected by harmful PFAS substances, which have been linked to serious health issues.
Recent analysis has uncovered widespread contamination in various UK wildlife, including otters, dolphins, fish, birds, and porpoises, all of which have been found to carry toxic “forever chemicals” in their tissues. These chemicals, known as PFAS, are manmade substances that persist in the environment and human body, failing to break down over time. Widely used in industrial processes and consumer products, PFAS have been associated with severe health risks, such as cancers, in both humans and animals.
Over 1,000 animals have been examined, revealing alarming levels of PFAS contamination, especially from two harmful substances, PFOS and PFOA, which have been banned due to their toxicity. Despite the ban, over 10,000 different types of PFAS exist, and much remains unknown about their full toxicological impact. Data from Watershed Investigations, the Marine Conservation Society, and the Guardian shows high PFAS levels, especially in top predators such as otters (up to 9,962μg/kg) and harbour porpoises (2,420μg/kg).
These findings highlight the ongoing pollution of UK ecosystems, particularly from industries like chemicals manufacturing, airports, military sites, and sewage treatment plants. Even old landfills along rivers and coasts are contributing to the spread of these harmful chemicals. Despite regulatory efforts, many animal species, including fish, are still showing PFAS levels above safety thresholds.
Experts warn that these substances could cause long-lasting damage, potentially leading to extinction for certain species. PFAS chemicals, much like PCBs that were banned decades ago, continue to accumulate in the environment, posing long-term risks. The government’s response, including potential bans and stricter regulations, remains a crucial factor in preventing further harm.
The call for urgent action is growing, with leading scientists and environmental groups demanding stricter regulations and bans on non-essential uses of PFAS, alongside financial support for ecological restoration.
