Government releases update on 'forever chemicals'

The government has published an update on its plan to tackle PFAS, a group of long lasting chemicals found in parts of Jersey.

PFAS, known as forever chemicals, take a long time to break down and can build up in the environment and human body causing serious health conditions.

The government's update responds to recommendations from an independent scientific panel that has been studying PFAS. One of the biggest steps being taken by the government is to introduce a legal limit on PFAS in drinking water.

The report has been published before a public meeting on the government's progress on PFAS which is due to take place at St Brelade Parish Hall between 18:30 and 20:00 GMT on Thursday.

The government said the new PFAS limit in drinking water would follow international best practice and would make sure Jersey Water keeps PFAS levels extremely low.

The proposal is currently going through the legal process.

The government said work was also continuing to support people who may have been exposed to higher PFAS levels in the past. This includes health checks and further blood testing for eligible Islanders.

In the environment, the government said it broadly agreed with the panel's advice on how to assess PFAS in soil, streams and boreholes.

A new page is t0 be added to the gov.je website to help households who use private borehole water understand how to get their water tested and what the results mean.

The government said PFAS was a "complex issue" and that more work was needed as new scientific evidence became available.

A full and final government response will be published later this year when the independent panel completes its final report.

Deputy Steve Luce, minister for the environment and Deputy Tom Binet, minister for health and social services, released a joint statement in response to the report.

"We recognise the concern PFAS continues to raise for islanders," they said.

"We will continue to work closely with the independent panel, partners and the public as this programme progresses.

"PFAS is a complex and evolving challenge, but through collaboration, transparency and evidence‑led action, we remain committed to delivering a responsible and effective long‑term response for Jersey."

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