New limit for toxic water chemical could be set

A panel recommended the government sets a new, lower combined limit

A new report recommends Jersey's government sets a new regulatory limit for the levels of a toxic and long-lasting chemical in mains drinking water.

Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) are man-made chemicals which can be found in items such as waterproof clothing, non-stick pans, lipsticks or food packaging.

The independent PFAS scientific advisory panel to the government published a draft interim report on PFAS and mains water on Thursday.

Dr Steve Hajioff, chair of the PFAS scientific advisory panel, said: "It will take time to bring Jersey water supply in line with our recommended new standard, and there is no cause for concern in the interim."

Jersey Water's public water supply currently meets both UK and EU regulatory standards for PFAS.

However the panel recommended the government sets a new, lower combined limit.

Mr Hajioff said PFAS levels in drinking water were already lower in Jersey than in many places around the world, including London and other parts of the UK.

He said the recommendations were "to future-proof the Jersey drinking water supply."

The Minister for the Environment, Deputy Steve Luce, thanked the scientific panel for the "helpful report".

He added: "I will consider their findings and recommendations in detail so we can respond appropriately".