Study: Contamination with "eternal chemicals” massively affects whales and dolphins

Contamination with perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), known as "eternal chemicals”, is much more widespread among cetaceans than previously estimated. A new study cited by the Xinhua news agency shows that even species that live far from areas of human activity are significantly affected. Researchers from New Zealand and Australia analyzed liver samples from 127 whales and dolphins stranded in New Zealand waters. According to an article published in The Conversation, PFAS substances were identified in 16 species, and eight of them, including Hector's dolphin and three species of beaked whale, were assessed for the first time globally for the presence of these pollutants. The results contradict the idea that contamination would be higher near industrial or urban areas. Habitat does not prove to be a relevant predictor of exposure levels. The study shows that age, size and sex have a stronger influence on the degree of contamination than geographical location. Males and older or larger specimens have significantly higher concentrations of PFAS. Researchers emphasize the high bioaccumulation capacity of these substances, which makes animals at the top of the food chain much more vulnerable. PFAS were originally designed to improve everyday products, from non-stick pans to fire-fighting foams, but their persistence in the environment is extremely high. The substances bind to proteins and accumulate in the blood and organs, affecting the endocrine, immune and reproductive systems, warn the authors quoted by Xinhua. "No region of the ocean is now safe from human-caused pollution," the researchers note. Contamination has been documented in species as diverse as critically endangered Maui dolphins to deep-sea beaked whales and sperm whales. The study was conducted in collaboration with experts from: Massey University, the University of Auckland, the University of Technology Sydney,

University of Wollongong. They point out that the presence of PFAS in the bodies of cetaceans in isolated areas demonstrates the global mobility of these pollutants. The study authors point out that humans are not protected either: "Even whales in the most remote regions carry large amounts of PFAS, and we know that humans are not insulated from this contamination either.” The findings raise serious questions about food safety, public health and the effectiveness of current regulations on the use and disposal of PFAS, substances that, according to experts, can persist in the environment for unlimited periods.