Japan Sets Water Quality Standards for PFAS to Protect Public Health and Drinking Water Safety

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) to be Regulated under Water Supply Law in Japan

The Environment Ministry in Japan has endorsed a policy to establish "water quality standards" for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) under the water supply law. This decision comes after an expert advisory panel recommended the move, citing the significant environmental and health risks posed by these synthetic chemicals.

PFAS are known for their ability to repel oil and water, making them useful in various applications such as waterproofing, firefighting foams, and the manufacturing of semiconductors and automobiles. However, they are also known for their persistence in the environment and potential to accumulate in biological organisms, raising concerns about their long-term impact on human health.

The new policy will require regular inspections to ensure that tap water adheres to the newly established PFAS safety standards. This will be crucial in protecting public health and ensuring the safety of drinking water.

The upcoming policy revision will elevate the existing interim safety target of 50 nanograms per liter for the combined levels of PFOS (perfluorooctane sulfonic acid) and PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid) in drinking water to an official water quality standard. This standard is in line with calculations based on the Food Safety Commission's daily allowable intake and is stricter than the interim targets set by the World Health Organization (WHO).

The production and importation of PFOS and PFOA have generally been banned in Japan. However, recent incidents, including leaks from U.S. military bases and contamination near industrial sites, have intensified safety concerns related to PFAS. In response, local governments are negotiating agreements with major semiconductor manufacturers to address and mitigate PFAS pollution.

From a public health perspective, the adoption of stringent legal water quality standards for PFAS is supported by the precautionary principle, which advocates for proactive measures to prevent environmental health hazards.

While challenges remain, such as identifying pollution sources and evaluating the impacts on soil, rivers, and well water, the new policy represents a significant step towards protecting public health and ensuring the safety of drinking water in Japan.