High concentrations of PFAS chemicals detected at Self-Defense Force facility
Tokyo, December 24 (QNA) – High concentrations of potentially harmful PFAS chemicals have been detected in tap water at Self-Defense Forces facilities in the Tokyo area and other areas, a Japanese government investigation revealed on Tuesday. Ta.
The five-year study, starting in 2020, looked at dedicated water systems serving hospitals, schools and other facilities.
The survey found that facilities with higher PFAS levels included the Ground Self-Defense Force Higashi Tachikawa Garrison, where 343 nanograms were detected, and the GSDF Kodaira Garrison, both in Tokyo, where 200 nanograms were detected, as well as Gifu Air Base in Gifu Prefecture. It was. According to Kyodo News Agency, a measurement of 86 nanograms was observed.
Separate water quality tests conducted after the investigation found 1,500 nanograms of PFAS in the water at the Ashiya base in Fukuoka Prefecture.
PFAS are used in a wide range of products, including fire extinguishers and frying pan coatings. Exposure to certain levels of PFAS may increase your risk of cancer.
As the interim cap is currently not legally binding, Japan’s Ministry of the Environment plans to legally enforce a cap of 50 nanograms per liter for PFOS and PFOA combined from April 2026, which will reduce PFAS levels. If water exceeds standards, water quality testing and measures to address the problem will be required. standard. (QNA)
