contaminated rain

Thai Rath Edition

17 Aug 2022 5:32 a.m.

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The problem of chemical residues contaminating the environment in the air, water bodies and land is not new.

But it is a chronic problem that remains unresolved, and as the days go on it becomes more and more severely affecting the health of both humans and animals at large.

At the beginning of the month

A team of environmental scientists from Sweden's University of Stockholm has published a new study in the journal.

Environmental Science & Technology, which raised further concerns by stating that

“Nowhere in the world

Even remote lands in Antarctica or the Tibetan Plateau are safe from polyfluoroalkyl and perfluoroalkyl (PFAS) contaminants in “rainwater.” ” that has fallen around the world, making it “unsafe” for consumption.

PFAS contamination levels also exceed the level of drinking water safety standards according to the US government.

set as much as 14 times, while also indicating that the evidence found

These substances are distributed in soil and in the atmosphere around the world.

PFAS, approximately 4,500 man-made carbon- and fluorine-containing chemicals, are used in a wide range of products.

many who use daily life

both various packaging

Waterproof clothing, paint, glue, paper, furniture, carpet, Teflon cookware coating on pots and pans, fire extinguishing foam, electronic equipment, shampoo and some cosmetics.

It is a chemical that has been around for thousands of years until it is known as

“Eternal chemicals” (forever chemi cals) because they do not disappear.

Residues can accumulate in soil, water and spread throughout the atmosphere.

until it fell to the ground again from the rain

Previously, studies have shown that if PFAS accumulates in the body

It can lead to serious health problems such as decreased fertility.

developmental delay in children

decreased ability of the immune system

Interferes with the body's natural hormonal functions.

also increases the risk of obesity

or suffering from certain types of cancer such as prostate, kidney and testes, as well as having elevated cholesterol levels

It also stated that

The health effects of PFAF are not that different from microplastics.

While concluding that "everyone" in the world is at the same risk.

Because the amount of the chemical exceeds the "scope" that is safe for human health.

and called for limiting the use and emissions of environmental pollutants.



This is not the first time that hazardous chemicals have been found to be contaminated in “rainwater”, but it is a reminder that the global environmental problem has reached a “crisis” stage and must be addressed today.

Amornda Phonguthai

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