Scientists warned: concentration of chemicals in precipitation is increasing worldwide

Alarming discovery: "forever chemicals" are flooding the planet from raindrops to Arctic ice

Scientists are sounding the alarm: the concentration of trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) is rapidly increasing in natural precipitation worldwide - from ordinary rain to snow and meltwater in the Arctic, reports the authoritative journal Nature.

TFA belongs to the notorious group of "forever chemicals" that practically do not decompose in nature. This synthetic component enters the environment through industrial emissions, refrigerant leaks, and as a result of the breakdown of certain pesticides.

Studies have shown shocking results: over the past few decades, the content of trifluoroacetic acid in tree leaves in Germany has increased 5-10 times. Traces of this substance are found everywhere - in European rivers and groundwater in Denmark.

Unlike many pollutants, TFA does not undergo natural degradation. Instead, the acid accumulates in water bodies, soil, and living organisms. Of particular concern is the detection of traces of this substance in human blood.

The scientific community continues to debate the degree of danger posed by TFA. Animal experiments show that only concentrations hundreds of thousands of times higher than those found in water and food products can cause direct harm to the body.

However, the latest research points to the possible negative impact of trifluoroacetic acid on the reproductive health of humans and animals, as well as on entire ecosystems. In light of these discoveries, European scientists have begun discussing the inclusion of TFA in the list of toxic substances. Some countries have already taken decisive steps, banning the use of pesticides that form this dangerous by-product.