An independent PFAS Scientific Advisory Panel released findings regarding efforts to reduce levels of “forever chemicals” in Jersey’s water supply, sparking debate over implementation costs and timelines.
The panel recommended limiting PFAS in drinking water to four nanograms per litre, stricter than the current UK standard of 10 nanograms per litre that Jersey Water has been following. Jersey Water stated that local water remains safe to drink but acknowledged the need for a framework to manage PFAS levels. Environment Minister Senator Mary Le Hegarat indicated the government was reviewing the report’s recommendations to develop an “evidence-based” response. Deputy Hilary Jeune, head of the Environment Scrutiny Panel, called on the government to communicate publicly about balancing health risks against implementation costs.
Jersey Water’s chief executive officer Helier Smith cautioned that constructing a new treatment plant could cost up to £210m, potentially increasing customer bills by 70 to 110 percent. He emphasized the utility’s preference for proportionate, cost-effective solutions. However, Ian Cousins, the scientific panel’s environmental expert, characterized this estimate as an exaggeration, noting that similar measures have been implemented elsewhere within three to five years at lower costs by retrofitting existing facilities rather than building new infrastructure.
PFAS contamination in Jersey traces to a 1990s leak from firefighting foam used at an airport fire training ground, which affected private water supplies. Recent findings revealed the affected area was larger than previously identified. Advocacy groups such as Water Awareness Jersey have pushed for accelerated action, including PFAS filters in public buildings and restrictions on free-range egg production in affected zones. Jersey Water announced it would share testing results on different PFAS reduction methods later this year.
The government is scheduled to provide a detailed response to the panel’s recommendations later this year.