WHO to scrap weak PFAS drinking water guidelines after alleged corruption
The WHO plans to withdraw its lenient PFAS drinking water guidelines amid corruption allegations, initiating a new review with a revised panel, following criticism of their safety and influence on global standards.
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The World Health Organization (WHO) plans to withdraw its controversial drinking water guidelines for PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), specifically PFOA and PFOS, following allegations of corruption in their development. Critics, including independent scientists, argue that the proposed guidelines were excessively lenient, allowing higher levels of these toxic chemicals in drinking water than those set by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The WHO's initial guidelines of 100 parts per trillion (ppt) were criticized for ignoring credible research and not adequately protecting human health. In response to the backlash, the WHO has initiated a new review of the scientific literature and disbanded the original panel of scientists, replacing them with a new group that includes fewer industry-affiliated members. This unprecedented move comes after significant criticism of the WHO's reliance on flawed studies and its dismissal of substantial health data regarding PFAS. The EPA has established a legal limit of four ppt for these substances, emphasizing that no level of exposure is considered safe. The WHO's guidelines, while non-binding, are influential in shaping legal limits worldwide, and their revision is seen as crucial for public health.
- WHO to withdraw lenient PFAS drinking water guidelines amid corruption allegations.
- Proposed guidelines allowed higher PFAS levels than US EPA standards.
- New review process initiated with a revised panel of scientists.
- EPA has set a legal limit of four ppt for PFOA and PFOS, deemed safe.
- WHO's guidelines are influential in establishing global legal limits.
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