MAP: French communes with ‘forever chemicals’ detected in tap water
The results come from a focused study on the excessive presence of PFAS in some water sources
Some studies suggest that PFAS chemicals can have negative effects on human health
Hanneke Wetzer/Shutterstock
A new map showing some areas where tap water is excessively contaminated with ‘forever chemicals’ in France, has been compiled, with the main locations shown found in eastern and southern France.
The company Selectra compiled the data, using figures from the Health Ministry, on the presence of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in tap water networks, and identified those that are “exceeding the standard” allowed.
“In terms of PFAS, the maximum tolerated level is set at 0.1 µg per litre of tap water,” said Selectra to BFMTV. “Although the tests will not be compulsory until 2026, 967 drinking water networks (out of 23,209) are already testing for contamination by 20 PFAS.”
Some of the major areas affected include:
The Marseille seaport at Fos-sur-Mer, Bouches-du-Rhône, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur (0.684 µg/L)
Neuwiller in Haut-Rhin, Grand Est (0.2619 µg/L)
Saint-Baldoph and Jacob-Bellecombette, Savoie, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes (0.11 µg/L)
The analyses were conducted by the Agences Régionales de Santé (ARS) in the water networks that were already suspected of having high PFAS levels, so it is not surprising that these levels were found.
Other areas may have similar levels, but there are few analyses or results available currently, particularly in the greater Paris urban area.
Yet, having water that exceeds the thresholds allowed still requires intervention, Selectra said. “If the threshold is exceeded, an action plan to restore the quality of the water distributed is implemented,” it stated.
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Negative health effects
It comes after several studies have suggested that PFAS have negative effects on human health.
As recently as February 13 this year, researchers from national medical research agency INSERM in Grenoble (Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes) published a study that found that these chemical compounds can have negative effects on the placenta and foetal development during pregnancy.
French health agency ANSES has also said that the chemicals can cause a rise in cholesterol levels and cancer rates, negative effects on fertility and foetal development, and on the liver and kidneys.
“[PFAS] are also suspected of interfering with the endocrine (thyroid) and immune systems,” states ANSES on its website.
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From January 1, 2026, the use of PFAS will be banned in France in products including cosmetics and certain items of clothing. However, one of the most significant sources of PFAS comes from kitchen items including anything with non-stick qualities, such as frying pans.
