What the Rain Drags: The Eternal Chemical That Worries Science and Is Falling Upon Us
, they say. But in the modern era, it could also be seeding an invisible contaminant: , a toxic residue that travels through the sky and accumulates on the planet. It has been found in drinking water, crops, and even in human blood. And although its toxicity is still debated, the scientific community is calling for action before it’s too late.
What is TFA and why is it falling from the sky
, known as “eternal chemicals” for their enormous resistance to degrade. It appears as a byproduct of the breakdown of certain industrial gases, especially those used in refrigeration systems and pesticides. Once released into the atmosphere, it travels long distances and , infiltrating rivers, soils, tree leaves, and even the human body. Its presence has multiplied between five and ten times in the last few decades, and although it does not cause immediate poisoning, its persistence makes it a silent threat.
The global debate: real risk or exaggerated?
While the UN considers TFA to pose a minimal environmental risk “at least until 2100,” many scientists do not share that calmness. Some experts claim that, in high concentrations, TFA can affect kidneys, liver, and cellular functions. There is also evidence of damage in aquatic animals and alterations in plant growth. : some compare it to table salt, arguing that the body eliminates it quickly. This lack of consensus has delayed clear regulations, while the chemical industry defends its use for its economic value. Countries like Germany already require classifying TFA as “very persistent and very mobile,” which would necessitate stricter rules.
What can be done (and what is still pending)
. Techniques like advanced filtration or chemical processes are still in the experimental phase. That’s why the priority is to avoid its production. Hans Peter Arp, a Norwegian researcher and author of the study published in Environmental Science & Technology, recommends banning or restricting products that generate TFA. This includes certain fluorinated gases, pharmaceuticals, and widely used agrochemicals. “The most effective approach is not to eliminate it once released, but to prevent its formation,” he warns. Dr. Jorgelina Altamirano, from IANIGLA-Conicet, agrees: “They are emerging contaminants that are everywhere, even in Argentina, but are not yet regulated.”
Today, . It doesn’t hurt. It doesn’t kill instantly. But it’s already in the air, in the water, and in our bodies. The question is no longer whether it affects us or not, but how much more evidence do we need to take action.
