A recent study by Biesek et al. provides new insights via numerical simulations into how the root zone of plants and the distribution of organic carbon in the soil affect PFAS movement. The study investigated the effects of soil organic carbon (SOC) distribution and water uptake by plant roots on PFAS movement in the vadose zone under temperate, humid climate conditions. 

Soil pollution is a major environmental and health concern in Europe, with potential links to cancer. The SOLACE research project aimed to explore the complex relationships between soil properties, pollution, land use, and human health. This project, which is part of the Joint Research Centre's (JRC) strategic scientific development, provides a foundation for further research and policy development.

PFAS persistence in the environment has led to widespread contamination, affecting our drinking water, food, and air. PFAS removal from the environment remains a challenge. Current PFAS degradation methods include chemical- and photochemical-initiated oxidation and reductions processes, mechanical and base-assisted destruction and incineration, all of which produce fluorine waste. In this study, researchers developed a new technique to breakdown PFAS, whereby it not only breaks down these harmful chemicals but also recycles valuable fluorine, turning an environmental challenge into a sustainable solution.

Proportionally high levels of pesticides are found in the blood of Dutch farmers, and house dust on farms contains a large amount of agricultural toxins. As European standards do not take into account overall health effects of simultaneous exposure to multiple agents, researchers fear numerous diseases.

Issue 596 from the News Alert Service of the European Commission draws the attention to research showing that commonly used chemicals all enter the environment. Levels in groundwater across the world highlight the need to assess the risk posed by these substances.