Chemistry Professor Finds Toxic PFAS in Canadian Neighborhood’s Drinking Water

A chemistry professor has discovered toxic chemicals contaminating drinking water in several Newfoundland homes, CBC News reported.

Four properties exceeded Canada’s safety limit of 30 nanograms per liter.

Karl Jobst of Memorial University tested water samples in Torbay homes and detected PFAS — also known as “forever chemicals.” More than half of the 15 properties tested near a wetland showed contamination above safety limits.

A former firefighter training area at St. John’s International Airport, located about 3.5 kilometers away and upstream, is believed to be the source.

Four properties exceeded Canada’s safety limit of 30 nanograms per liter, while another four fell within Canadian guidelines but failed to meet stricter U.S. standards, Leslie Sattler also reported for The Cool Down (TCD).

Jobst began testing after learning of water problems in Pine Ridge, a nearby community.

His research team found PFAS concentrations 15 times above safe levels in a creek running through The Gully conservation area. “It’s the stuff that keeps you awake at night, thinking how you’re going to help these residents,” said Craig Scott, the area’s mayor.

PFAS persist for centuries in the environment and accumulate in human bodies. Research has linked them to cancer, liver disease, and pregnancy complications.