A map of polluting chemicals that do not break down in the environment shows serious pollution in Western Europe, but also that Romania is the least affected EU country by this type of contamination.
Polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a family of about 10 thousand chemical compounds that have the property of being indestructible and non-adherent in the natural environment. They are used in a wide range of consumer products (including waterproof clothing, cosmetics, electronics, packaging), but after use, if not recycled they end up in the air, water, or soil. The study, based on research carried out by several western European publications and NGOs, found that pollution from these substances is much lower in eastern Europe than in the UK, France, Germany and, especially, Belgium and the Netherlands.
The map shows that Belgium has the highest levels of pollution, and PFAS substances have been found even in groundwater in high concentrations. For example, people living within a 15 kilometre radius of a factory where a high concentration of these substances has been identified have been advised not to eat vegetables or even animal products (such as chicken eggs) produced in the area.
The map drawn up by Western publications seems to show that Romania is the least affected country in the EU by this type of pollution, but a few points have also been identified in the Galati area (possibly at Sidex), in Mehedinți (Porțile de Fier II), in Sibiu county (at the entrance to the Olt Valley) and in the north of Argeș county.
The study also shows that drinking water sources can be contaminated with PFAS, but water companies claim that the chemicals do not ultimately reach the tap because the water is treated to dilute concentrations of the substances or even remove them.
Source: biziday.ro
The full study: The Guardian
_______
Photo: Dariusz Grosa
Comentários