Government Issues New Update on “Forever Chemicals”

The Government of Jersey has issued a progress update on its strategy to address PFAS contamination, a group of highly persistent chemicals detected in several parts of the island.

PFAS — often referred to as “forever chemicals” because they break down extremely slowly — can accumulate in the environment and in human bodies, and have been linked to serious health risks.

The update follows recommendations from an independent scientific panel that has been investigating PFAS on the island. Among the most significant proposed measures is the introduction of a legally enforceable limit on PFAS levels in drinking water.

The report was released ahead of a public meeting on the government’s PFAS response, scheduled for Thursday evening at St Brelade Parish Hall.

Officials said the proposed drinking water standard would align with international best practice and ensure that Jersey Water maintains PFAS concentrations at very low levels. The measure is currently progressing through the legislative process.

Support efforts are also continuing for residents who may have been exposed to higher PFAS levels in the past, including health screenings and additional blood testing for eligible Islanders.

Environmental monitoring

In relation to environmental contamination, the government said it largely accepted the panel’s recommendations on assessing PFAS in soil, streams and boreholes.

A new section will be added to the Government of Jersey website to guide households that rely on private boreholes, explaining how to arrange water testing and interpret the results.

Officials described PFAS as a complex issue requiring ongoing work as scientific understanding evolves. A comprehensive final response is expected later this year once the independent panel submits its concluding report.

Ministers’ response

Environment Minister Steve Luce and Health Minister Tom Binet said in a joint statement that they recognised continuing public concern about PFAS.

They added that the government would maintain close cooperation with the scientific panel, partner organisations and the community as the programme moves forward.

Describing PFAS as a “complex and evolving challenge,” the ministers said a long-term solution would depend on collaboration, transparency and evidence-based action to protect Islanders’ health and the environment.