Microplastics are increasingly detected in groundwater, yet their occurrence, transport and environmental relevance remain difficult to assess. A systematic review of 82 field studies from 28 countries demonstrates their presence across a wide range of hydrogeological settings. Large differences in reported concentrations are strongly influenced by inconsistent sampling and analytical methods. Standardised monitoring is therefore essential for developing reliable groundwater quality criteria and future regulatory frameworks. 

PFAS contamination is not only an environmental and health issue, but also a challenge of environmental justice and access to reliable knowledge. Based on 25 documented PFAS conflicts worldwide, this study examines how scientific uncertainty, chemical persistence and information asymmetries shape affected communities. The authors describe how the largely invisible nature of PFAS contamination can delay recognition and regulatory action. The study highlights the importance of combining scientific evidence with the experiences and knowledge of exposed communities. 

PFAS contamination is widespread across Europe, but removing these persistent chemicals from the environment is technically difficult and extremely costly. This study estimates the costs and potential impact of large-scale PFAS remediation across the EU. Even extensive treatment of contaminated soil, drinking water, wastewater, sludge and landfill leachate would remove only a small fraction of ongoing emissions. The results demonstrate that remediation must be combined with strong control of PFAS emissions at their source.

PFAS contamination of groundwater can also affect agricultural products and contribute to human exposure through food and beverages. This study investigated PFAS in wines produced within and around a major contaminated area in Northern Italy. Short-chain PFAS, particularly perfluorobutanoic acid (PFBA), were frequently detected and linked to local groundwater contamination. The results suggest that wine may serve both as a bioindicator of groundwater contamination and as a potential dietary exposure pathway. 

Australia offers a highly relevant case study of how PFAS contamination challenges conventional approaches to environmental governance and risk assessment. This perspective was presented by Matthew Askeland, Principal Environmental Scientist at ADE Consulting Group, and Karl Bowles, Senior Principal Environmental Scientist at Jacobs and Adjunct Associate Professor at the University of Queensland (QAEHS), both representing ALGA’s Emerging Contaminants of Concern Special Interest Group.