NewsStory

Two persistent chemicals fell in England’s rivers over a decade

KROV newsroom

12 Nov 2026, 10:08 am IST1 min read

DiscussionThe story behind the news.

Illustration of a river with an unlabelled water sample vial in the foreground

Levels of PFOS and PFOA in England’s rivers fell by about 30% and 29% respectively between 2016 and 2025, the Environment Agency reported on 12 November. Over the same period, PFOS concentrations in freshwater fish declined by about 49%.

The chemicals belong to the PFAS family, many members of which break down very slowly. The agency said controls on the two older compounds helped lower their levels. It also found that PFAS remained widespread, reflecting past use and ongoing releases from some sources.

The river figures track two compounds in England. The agency says the assessment will inform work under the UK’s PFAS plan, including expanded monitoring.

Cover image is an AI-generated editorial illustration.

Sources and credits

Credit: Environment Agency via GOV.UK · © Crown copyright, Open Government Licence v3.0 · Summarised/translated by KROV · Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.

More context. A clearer perspective.

KROV · CONVERSATION

Comments

Share your perspective respectfully. Comments appear after review. Please do not share personal information.

Loading comments…

England announces poultry housing order from November 13

A$13.5 million for Aboriginal-led conservation planning in New South Wales

English housing scheme using warmth from mine water wins energy award

England seeks feedback on new science and care courses for 2028

New South Wales seeks feedback on draft Lachlan River water-sharing plan