Investigations by WaterNSW have identified the likely sources of contamination by “forever chemicals” (PFAS) in reservoirs around the Blue Mountains, NSW. The primary culprits are historical cases of PFAS-based firefighting foam used in two vehicle accidents along the Great Western Highway, occurring in 1992 and 2002, as well as the activities of the Medlow Bath Rural Fire Brigade Station.
WaterNSW has reported that the unique chemical signatures found in samples from the Adams Creek and Medlow catchments align with the historical use of Aqueous Fire Fighting Foam. While this foam was widely employed across Australia for fire suppression, its use began to be phased out by Fire and Rescue NSW and the Rural Fire Service from 2000, culminating in a complete ban by 2007.
The investigation suggests that the PFAS contamination is being transported downstream by rainfall and surface water runoff, posing a risk to the Medlow and Greaves catchments. Due to these findings, the Medlow and Greaves Creek Dams will remain disconnected from the Blue Mountains’ drinking water supply until effective long-term mitigation measures can be implemented.
Despite the contamination, NSW Health and Sydney Water assure residents that the drinking water in the Blue Mountains meets national safety guidelines. A comprehensive investigation involving multiple agencies is set to proceed, aimed at exploring potential remediation strategies.
PFAS chemicals, known for their persistence in the environment and resistance to degradation, have raised concerns in various regions, including Sydney and North Richmond in recent months. These synthetic compounds are commonly found in several industrial products, household items, and cosmetic products due to their ability to repel water and stains. While connections between high levels of PFAS exposure and certain health risks, including cancer, have been suggested, further research is required to substantiate these claims.