Rainwater has provided humans and their ecosystem water for living, but a new study finds that it is now unsafe to drink.

Kunlaphat Raksakul / Shutterstock

ENVIRONMENT

Rainwater Is Now Confirmed Unsafe to Drink

by Yunjin Choi posted on August 12, 2022
Rainwater has provided humans and their ecosystem water for living, but a new study finds that it is now unsafe to drink.
Anna Nikonorova / Shutterstock

Rainwater has provided humans and their ecosystem water for living, but a new study finds that it is now unsafe to drink.

According to the study conducted by Cousins, Johansson, Salter, Sha, and Scheringer, rainwater contains excessive amounts of “forever chemicals.” These chemicals are scientifically categorized as Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are human-made chemicals that are not naturally produced and cannot break down in the environment. According to Euronews Green, “They have non-stick or stain repellent properties so can be found in household items like food packaging, electronics, cosmetics and cookware.”

In other words, the overuse of plastic by humans has led the PFA boundary to exceed. Consequently, these “forever chemicals” have taken all over the world, including remote areas such as Antarctica and the Tibetan plateau. Despite being remote, the two regions still contained PFAS levels “approximately 14 times higher than the advisory.”

One of the most concerning substances is Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA), which accumulates in the body and can likely cause cancer. If excessive amounts of these “forever chemicals” are consumed, the human body can undergo problems with the immune system, cardiovascular system, fertility, as well as a higher risk of cancer. Children also have to be aware of these chemicals because they can cause developmental delays, obesity, and suppression of vaccine responses.

Although the side effects do not appear immediately, “forever chemicals” accumulate over time and can cause long-term impacts. The question of if we can eliminate the contamination and the plastics in our environment remains unsolved. However, we can find an alternative, such as making a filter for “forever chemicals” until the issue is solved.

ENVIRONMENT

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