Scientists have discovered a new biological cleanup method for persistent “forever chemicals” that have been contaminating water and soil for decades. These chemicals, known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), are used in a variety of industrial and consumer products, including non-stick cookware, firefighting foam, and waterproof clothing.
PFAS are called “forever chemicals” because they do not break down in the environment and can accumulate in the bodies of animals and humans. Exposure to PFAS has been linked to a range of health problems, including cancer, immune system dysfunction, and developmental delays in children.
Traditional cleanup methods for PFAS contamination involve expensive and energy-intensive processes such as incineration or chemical treatment. However, researchers at the University of Massachusetts Amherst have found a more sustainable and cost-effective solution: using bacteria to break down PFAS.
The researchers discovered a strain of bacteria called Acidimicrobium sp. A6 that can break down PFAS into harmless byproducts. The bacteria were found in soil samples taken from a contaminated site in Massachusetts.
The team then tested the bacteria’s ability to break down PFAS in a lab setting. They found that the bacteria could break down two common types of PFAS, perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), into carbon dioxide and fluoride ions.
The researchers believe that this new biological cleanup method could be used to remediate PFAS-contaminated sites around the world. The bacteria could be introduced into contaminated soil or water, where they would break down the PFAS over time.
This new method has several advantages over traditional cleanup methods. It is less expensive, requires less energy, and produces fewer harmful byproducts. Additionally, it is a more sustainable solution that does not rely on harsh chemicals or incineration.
However, there are still some challenges to overcome before this method can be widely adopted. The researchers need to test the bacteria’s effectiveness in real-world settings and determine the best way to introduce the bacteria into contaminated sites.
Despite these challenges, this new biological cleanup method offers hope for a more sustainable and effective solution to PFAS contamination. By harnessing the power of bacteria, we may be able to clean up our environment and protect our health from these persistent “forever chemicals.”
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