This could rid the environment of 'forever chemicals'

In 10 seconds? Researchers have come up with an easy and inexpensive way to break down harmful ‘forever chemicals’ (PFAS) in our water, providing a possible solution to removing hazardous human-made materials from the environment.

Why are we talking about it? According to a 2023 report (non-peer reviewed) by a campaign organisation (Environmental Working Group), over 300 wildlife species carry traces of these compounds accross the globe - check out their interactive map (including the US) here. Affected species include polar bears, tigers, monkeys, dolphins, fish and even domestic cats. PFAS have been linked to a host of issues with human health too, ranging from infertility, immune-suppression, thyroid disease and some cancers. The CDC has found traces of PFAS in the bloodstream of the general US population (although levels have dramatically declined since the beginning of the century.