20+ EU Politicians Found with Forever Chemicals in Blood

Welcome, Net Zero News readers,

In a concerning revelation that highlights the pervasive issue of chemical contamination, a recent study has found that more than 20 politicians across the European Union test positive for harmful PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) in their blood. These toxic chemicals, often referred to as “forever chemicals” due to their resistance to environmental degradation, have been linked to a myriad of health problems, including cancer, liver damage, and fertility issues.

The findings, announced by participating non-governmental organisations, reveal a stark reality about the extent of PFAS contamination in Europe. According to Danish Environment Minister Magnus Heunicke, who participated in the testing, “I tested positive for four substances, and three of them can harm unborn children, act as endocrine disruptors, cause liver damage, and are suspected of being carcinogenic.” He described the results as a “frightening reality” and emphasised the urgent need for decisive action against PFAS pollution to protect public health.

PFAS substances are notorious for their ability to accumulate in the environment and within human bodies, leading to significant health risks. Most individuals in the world have at least some level of PFAS in their blood. The results from this recent testing indicate that contamination levels for half of the EU leaders tested were concerning enough to suggest potential health impacts. Alarmingly, one individual had PFAS levels indicating a significant risk of long-term health effects.

This testing initiative was coordinated by Denmark during a meeting of EU environment ministers earlier this summer in Aalborg, as the country currently holds the rotating presidency of the Council of the EU. Denmark is also one of five European nations that have put forward a joint proposal to the European Commission aimed at phasing out thousands of PFAS chemicals under EU chemicals law, a proposal still under consideration by the European Chemicals Agency.

The timing of these revelations is particularly poignant, occurring just days after U.N. Special Rapporteur on Toxics and Human Rights, Marcos Orellana, publicly condemned the European Union for its recent proposals to dilute several chemical protection laws, which critics argue could undermine public health for the benefit of industrial interests.

Among the politicians tested were notable figures such as EU Environment Commissioner Jessika Roswall and outgoing French Ecological Transition Minister Agnès Pannier-Runacher. Roswall reported testing positive for six out of thirteen PFAS substances, including those classified as harmful to reproductive health. She stated, “Like many other citizens across Europe, I have PFAS in my body. PFAS pollution is a vital public health issue.”

Interestingly, one of the participants, Leena Ylä-Mononen, Executive Director of the European Environment Agency, showed a decline in PFAS levels since her last blood test, mirroring trends observed within the broader European population regarding restricted PFAS substances. However, Roswall expressed concerns over proposed exemptions from a complete phase-out of PFAS, which could apply to critical industries such as semiconductors, batteries, and pharmaceuticals—all of which rely on PFAS in their production processes.

Environmental advocates are calling for a comprehensive ban on all PFAS, not merely those used in consumer products. Anne-Sofie Bäckar from ChemSec stated, “It is crucial that we implement a universal ban on all PFAS before another generation pays the price for industry’s delay.” Such a ban is seen as essential for safeguarding public health and the environment.

The European Commission is anticipated to revise its major chemicals regulation, REACH, later this year, although the timeline for this process remains uncertain. Additionally, EU institutions are working on a “chemicals omnibus” bill that seeks to simplify existing regulations concerning cosmetics, fertilizers, and chemical classifications.

U.N. Special Rapporteur Marcos Orellana recently warned that the proposed dilution of chemical protections could damage the European Union’s reputation as a global leader in green policy and adherence to the rule of law. This sentiment resonates with many environmental advocates who feel that the health of citizens should take precedence over industrial interests.

As we reflect on these developments, it becomes increasingly evident that the issue of chemical safety is not just a regulatory challenge but a public health crisis that requires immediate and sustained action from both policymakers and the public. The testing of these politicians serves as a wake-up call, highlighting the urgent need for a robust response to the contamination that affects us all.

As champions of the Net Zero movement, it is crucial for us to remain vigilant and advocate for stronger protections against harmful chemicals that threaten our health and the environment. Let us continue to push for policies that prioritise public health, safety, and sustainability in all aspects of industry and governance.

Stay informed, stay engaged, and let’s work together towards a safer and healthier future.