Last Updated on: 10th March 2025, 04:42 pm
A major new study by the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) has revealed that 67% of UK residents are unaware of the health risks linked to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), despite increasing evidence connecting these ‘forever chemicals’ to serious health conditions. In response, Bluewater, a leading global provider of water purification solutions, is calling for urgent action to improve public knowledge and introduce solutions to address water contamination.
Bengt Rittri, founder and CEO of Bluewater, emphasised the need for immediate awareness, stating: “The British public has a right to know the health risks posed by PFAS contamination. With the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, for instance, declaring that there is no safe level of PFAS in drinking water, it is alarming that so many people in the UK remain uninformed about these toxic chemicals. Politicians must act, but individuals and businesses can take control now by investing in proven purification technologies to safeguard their health.”
RSC Study Highlights Public Concern Over PFAS Exposure
PFAS are synthetic compounds commonly used in non-stick cookware, firefighting foams, and food packaging. Scientific studies have linked exposure to these chemicals to testicular cancer, thyroid disorders, elevated cholesterol, liver damage, fertility problems, and birth defects.
A recent RSC survey of nearly 5,000 UK residents, published in January, found that 90% of respondents believe it is ‘very important’ to regulate PFAS levels in food, drinking water, and the environment. However, the fact that 67% had never heard of PFAS before the study underscores the urgent need for greater public education on the issue.
Concerns about water safety are further supported by a 2024 international study, which found that 52.3% of people across 141 countries fear that their drinking water could become unsafe within the next two years. This anxiety was particularly prevalent among women, urban populations, and lower-income households.
Bluewater Research Detects High PFAS Levels in London
Adding to the growing body of evidence, an independent study commissioned by Bluewater has identified significant PFAS contamination in London’s tap water. In one example, a water sample from Harrow contained PFAS-4 chemicals exceeding Sweden’s regulatory limits by 550%. Bluewater argues that these findings demonstrate the urgent need for effective purification systems, particularly in urban environments where PFAS contamination is a growing concern.
Bluewater: A Trusted Solution for Safe Drinking Water
Bluewater’s advanced water purification technology is capable of removing up to 99.7% of harmful contaminants, including PFAS, heavy metals, and microplastics—all of which are now found in many tap and bottled water sources. Designed for households, businesses, and the hospitality industry, Bluewater’s filtration systems provide a safer, cleaner alternative to traditional water sources.
Bengt Rittri added: “As awareness of PFAS contamination rises, so does the demand for trusted solutions. At Bluewater, we believe access to pure drinking water is a fundamental human right. Our mission is to empower people to take control of their health and well-being by ensuring their water is safe and clean.”
Bluewater’s under-sink water purifiers and public dispensers are available across the UK, offering an eco-friendly alternative to bottled and tap water. By removing PFAS and other contaminants at the point of use, Bluewater’s technology also reduces plastic waste, eliminating the need for single-use plastic bottles while delivering superior water quality for homes and businesses alike.
