The Government of Jersey’s announcement to introduce specific regulatory standards for PFAS in drinking water is a positive and necessary step that aligns with our longstanding support for PFAS regulation for the Island.
Since 1989, we have proactively monitored PFAS levels in the water supply. We adopt a precautionary approach by following the standards set by the UK and EU, ensuring we minimise PFAS levels within these safe limits. Today, the trace levels detected in the mains supply, which equate to approximately a teaspoon and a half of sugar in 100 Olympic-sized swimming pools, are 68% lower than the UK and EU limits. This demonstrates our ongoing efforts to not just meet but exceed regulatory standards. We are also already close to full compliance with the future regulations to be introduced by the UK, EU and USA between now and 2031.
Maintaining the safety and quality of our water, as well as the public’s trust in the supply, are our highest priorities. We fully understand that PFAS pollution is a concern for Islanders, as it is increasingly for communities around the world, as scientific understanding grows about these man-made chemicals and their environmental impact. We equally do not want any contaminants in our water, whether PFAS, nitrates, pesticides, sewerage or any other pollution. We work hard to ensure that the Island’s supply is safe, and we can assure the public that it is.
We are already focused on remaining fully compliant with any future standard set for the Island. As we await further detail on the Government’s proposed limits, we will continue to minimise PFAS in the water supply and actively assess potential treatment solutions to ensure our continued compliance.
We are committed to adopting the most effective and sustainable treatment technologies to maintain water quality and the public’s confidence in the Island’s water supply.
More information on water quality, including test results, can be found in our annual water quality reports published on our website:
Water Quality Report – Jersey Water