Luxembourg's waters are contaminated with trifluoroacetic acid (TFA), a compound dangerous to health
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The Luxembourg Ministries of Environment, Agriculture and Health are jointly studying the problem of water contamination by trifluoroacetic acid (TFA). This chemical, associated with the use of per- and polyfluoroalkyl compounds (PFAS), poses a serious threat to ecosystems and public health.
The working group, which includes experts from different agencies, focuses on developing measures to reduce TFA concentrations in surface water, groundwater and drinking water. It is planned that recommendations will be submitted to ministers in spring 2025 to initiate the necessary steps.
The use of PFAS, especially in agricultural areas, has been identified as one of the key causes of pollution. This has raised the question of possible restrictions on the use of pesticides containing these substances, especially in water protection zones. Decision-making in this area will be based on analyses of environmental, economic and social factors.
This approach emphasises the importance of the precautionary principle, which aims to prevent further deterioration of water quality and ensure its safety for future generations. However, even in spite of Luxembourg's efforts, water pollution is still an issue.
