PFAS ('forever chemicals') in drinking water: what to know

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are industrial chemicals that don't break down and accumulate in the body. Common sources: firefighting foams, non-stick coatings, water-repellent textiles.

Since January 2026, EU Directive 2020/2184 requires Member States to monitor 20 PFAS with a 0.5 µg/L total limit. Belgium (VMM), the Netherlands (RIVM) and Germany (UBA) publish regional measurement data.

If you live near a hotspot (industry, fire station, military airfield), check local reports. Filters that reduce PFAS: granular activated carbon (GAC), reverse osmosis, and some ion-exchange filters — look for NSF/ANSI P473 or 53 certification.

Sources: EU 2020/2184; ECHA PFAS Restriction Proposal (2023); VMM/RIVM 2025 reports.