Toxic Pfas above proposed safety limits in almost all English waters tested

Pfas are human-made chemicals used in industrial processes and products such as non-stick pans, clothing and firefighting foams. Photograph: Connect Images/Alamy

Nearly all rivers, lakes and ponds in England tested for a range of Pfas, known as “forever chemicals”, exceed proposed new safety limits and 85% contain levels at least five times higher, analysis of official data reveals.

Out of 117 water bodies tested by the Environment Agency for multiple types of Pfas, 110 would fail the safety standard, according to analysis by Wildlife and Countryside Link and the Rivers Trust.