Nestlé illegally filtered its water. Since then, the industry has been fighting for its credibility. Now a mineral water inspector has pointed out another problem: plastic bottles change the taste and ingredients of the water.
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PFAS ubiquitous in the blood and associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease
Researchers at the DZNE have shown that traces of the ubiquitous PFAS chemicals in human blood are associated with unfavorable lipid profiles and therefore with an increased risk of cardiovascular ...
List of potential chemicals in water
Chemicals are a key aspect of the plastics issue. Although there is a wealth of scientific information on plastic chemicals and polymers available to policy makers, implementing this knowledge is a challenge as the information is scattered and not easily accessible. The PlastChem report and database address this problem by comprehensively and consistently summarizing the state of the science on plastic chemicals, including their hazardous properties and their occurrence in polymers.
Microplastics are passed on by cancer cells
According to a study, very small plastic particles that enter the body when drinking, eating and breathing are not broken down in cancer cells like all other foreign bodies - the microplastics enter the daughter cells as they divide, a research team has found. This could even promote the spread of cancer cells.
"Puls": Perpetual chemicals PFAS - Increasing exposure, growing danger? - Media portal
PFAS are called perpetual chemicals for a reason. Once released, they hardly degrade in the environment. On the contrary, as they are found in countless industrial products, they accumulate more and more - including in the human organism via the food chain. With unforeseeable consequences. Daniela Lager presents the program.
Hormones in water: What effect do they have on humans and animals?
Countless chemicals are used every day and most of them end up in the sewage treatment plant. There they are only partially eliminated; the rest ends up in the water.
This is how the agricultural lobby overturned one of the most important laws
For 30 years, the level of pesticide contamination in German soil has barely decreased. In the shadow of the farmers' protests, it has almost gone unnoticed how the agricultural lobby prevailed in Brussels at the last minute.
Nestlé used prohibited treatment methods for mineral water
Nestlé, the world's largest mineral water producer, has resorted to banned treatments with ultraviolet and activated carbon filters for its mineral water.
Hydrogen-rich water - the new miracle drink?
In recent years, numerous studies have been published that show how molecular hydrogen can strengthen human health and protect against a wide range of diseases. In this article, we present the latest scientific findings and explain how you can produce hydrogen-rich water yourself.
PFAS in water: municipalities play down the problem
Over 1500 readers of K-Tipp had their drinking water tested for harmful PFAS. The result: contaminated water flows from every second tap. The local authorities are playing it down - and the federal government is only reacting hesitantly.
Expert warns: plastic bottles are bad for your health
A newly published study shows that there are around 100 times more plastic particles in water bottles than previously assumed.
Salt in our water: a danger to humans and the environment - Blog der Universität Koblenz - Landau
Professor Dr. Oliver Frör explains in an interview why more attention needs to be paid to the increasing salinization of water bodies as an ecological problem.
Too many PFAS chemicals in the groundwater in Stein and Muri
Previously secret federal data shows: The EU limit value for PFAS chemicals is exceeded at two groundwater wells in Aargau. Those responsible in Stein and Muri say that the local limit is being adhered to. However, Switzerland is planning to adopt the stricter European value for the substances.
PFAS: These places in Switzerland have toxic groundwater
The federal government carried out an investigation of the groundwater for harmful PFAS, but concealed the exact measurement results.
Industrial chemicals in Aargau drinking water
Measured values from the canton and the consumer magazine "K-Tipp" show: In 16 municipalities, the American limit value for the problematic substances PFOS and PFOA is exceeded in drinking water. The much higher limits that apply in Switzerland and the EU, however, are complied with, as the cantonal chemist emphasizes.
Brown water flows from the tap in an Aargau housing estate
A resident from Kaiseraugst AG posts a video of his bathtub on Facebook. But the water running into it is not inviting for a bath - it is brown and dirty.
Drinking water contaminated in two districts of Bellinzona
In two districts of Bellinzona, the water was temporarily undrinkable on Saturday morning due to microbiological contamination. The authorities issued a corresponding warning on Alertswiss.
US limits in Aargau drinking water partially exceeded
The consumer magazine "K-Tipp" reports on high levels of harmful PFAS compounds in five municipalities. Cantonal chemist Alda Breitenmoser disagrees and emphasizes that even a strict EU limit value, which does not yet apply in Switzerland, is complied with in Aargau.
PFA residues found in almost half of Swiss drinking water samples
The poorly degradable chemicals, known as PFAS, were found in 46 percent of 564 drinking water samples from Switzerland. The maximum value of the EU Drinking Water Directive was exceeded in five samples.
Harmful chemicals frequently found in drinking water
Harmful and persistent polyfluorinated alkyl substances (Pfas) are found in groundwater in many places. They are found in almost half of the ...
Pollution in Märwil TG: Dozens of fish die in the Zwäribächli stream
On Monday, several dozen dead fish were spotted in the Zwäribächli near Märwil TG. Contaminated wastewater from a construction site is suspected to be the cause.
Drinking water in Preonzo and Moleno TI is contaminated
Drinking water in the Ticino municipalities of Preonzo and Moleno was not allowed to be consumed on Saturday night until further notice. The authorities issued a corresponding warning via Alertswiss.
Limit values for nitrate in water from Wagenhausen exceeded
The limit values for nitrate have been exceeded in a drinking water intake in the municipality of Wagenhausen. The affected catchment supplies Stein am Rhein in the canton of Schaffhausen. However, the Thurgau Environmental Agency is now called upon to act.
Water pollution in Murist - Investigation initiated - Freiburger Nachrichten
An unknown product has caused foaming in the water of the Ruisseau des Combes in Murist-Montborget. The ecosystem was affected. Investigations into the cause of the pollution are ongoing.
Drinking water: Bavaria and the mega pipeline from Lake Constance
Water associations and politicians in Bavaria are considering a project worth billions: A mega pipeline could bring water from Lake Constance to the dry north and east of Bavaria in the future. But not only conservationists are skeptical.
Baden-Württemberg: BW Ministry of Consumer Protection warns of chemicals in drinking water
Internal pipe renovation is advertised and used as a cost-effective alternative to complete renovation. However, this has a major disadvantage.
Pesticides in streams endanger biodiversity
According to a study by the Federal Environment Agency, the limit value for pesticides is exceeded in 80 percent of streams in Germany - which is bad news for dragonfly larvae and mayflies. Can wider riparian strips help? By R. Markthaler.
Potentially toxic chemicals - "drinking tubes" made of paper and bamboo are not harmless
According to the study, many of the supposedly environmentally and health-friendly stalks contain potentially toxic chemicals.
Contaminated drinking water in Brissago TI
You should no longer drink tap water in Brissago, warns the federal government. The reason: the water is contaminated.
No placebo! University of Bern confirms effect of homeopathic medicines - Pflüger
The Institute for Complementary and Integrative Medicine (IKOM) has set up a new internet portal on homeopathy. Clinical studies and laboratory experiments are collected and evaluated there. Research into this gentle therapy method at university level is of particular importance.
Industry: Bosch plans its own AI for its associates
The industrial group relies heavily on AI. Now it has its own language model that works in a similar way to ChatGPT. Bosch has developed an AI shield to protect against the risks.
Litter in Lake Constance: sobering reality under water
The shores of Lake Constance are full of garbage. Two people from Constance are taking matters into their own hands. They collect the garbage and appeal to the public to take responsibility.
Mineral water causes more CO₂ than German air traffic
Mineral water is an everyday drink. What few people know: The thirst-quencher causes a lot of CO₂ - even significantly more than domestic air traffic in Germany. What role does tap water play?
Drinking water: the battle for blue gold
The last few years have been far too dry. This raises many questions about the drinking water supply. These are the most important answers.
Contaminated drinking water: boil order for the city of Hof
The city of Hof in Upper Franconia has issued a boiling order due to contamination of the drinking water. During a routine sampling, the municipal utilities discovered contamination with germs, the city announced on Thursday.
Water pollution: metal company in Toggenburg sentenced
Over eight tons of metal sludge flowed into the sewage system at a metal finishing company in Toggenburg over a period of two years. The negligent behavior was discovered during an inspection by the Office for the Environment. The company and its managing director have now been sentenced.
Drinking water in Röthenbach i.E. - Contaminated water due to defective UV system
In parts of the Emmental municipality of Röthenbach, the water smells and tastes of chlorine because it was previously contaminated.
Because bacteria can penetrate: Drinking water source in Franconian Switzerland remains off the grid
Ebermannstadt/Gasseldorf - The drinking water source in Gasseldorf will remain off the grid until the fall. The town of Ebermannstadt and the local public utility company emphasize that this is purely a precautionary measure. The reason: bacteria can penetrate the water.
Switzerland: Every second household has harmful drinking water
The consumer magazine "K-Tipp" had its readers' drinking water tested for 29 toxic substances. Around half of the samples were positive.
Toxins in drinking water: every second household affected
Many Swiss municipalities have a drinking water problem. This is shown by a K-Tipp reader survey. Almost half of the samples analyzed contained harmful PFAS, which hardly degrade in the environment.
Microplastics found in every sample of water taken during the Ocean Race
Concentrations of plastics in round-the-world race through remote ocean environments found to be up to 18 times higher than during previous event in 2017-18
World's oldest water discovered: researchers are fascinated - then they taste it
Geologists discovered the impressive liquid in a Canadian mine. It is several billion years old and has a special taste.
Switzerland: Every second household has harmful drinking water
The consumer magazine "K-Tipp" had its readers' drinking water tested for 29 toxic substances. Around half of the samples were positive.
Yes, water falls from the sky. But...
Even if drinking water is not (yet) scarce in Switzerland, there are already conflicts worldwide over this rare and valuable commodity. Life on earth without water is unthinkable. Reason enough to take care of this vital substance.
More and more men are infertile. Everyday chemicals are partly to blame
Certain hormonally active chemicals affect testosterone uptake and can therefore impair sperm quality. In our video, we explain how these chemicals work in our bodies and why they can lead to harmful consequences even in the womb.
Popular artificial sweetener can damage DNA
A new study has alarmed researchers, as the commonly used sweetener sucralose can apparently damage human DNA.
10 to 10 from 06.06.2023 - Play SRF
Ukraine war escalates again, dealing with PFAS chemicals, abortion taboo, a horse visits a retirement and nursing home
Water pollution: US companies pay 1.2 billion - Schweizer Bauer
Three major US chemical companies have agreed to pay almost 1.2 billion US dollars (1.09 billion Swiss francs) for the contamination of drinking water sources with so-called perpetual chemicals. The majority of the US population receives drinking water from the affected sources. In a joint statement on Friday, Chemours, Du Pont and Corteva announced that they had reached "an agreement in principle" [...]
Lack of chemicals in sewage treatment plants: 4 federal states suspend water purification rules! - pleiteticker.de
By Pauline Schwarz. Supply bottlenecks: sewage treatment plants are running out of chemicals! Four German states are therefore taking drastic steps - they are allowing phosphate limits to be exceeded. European production of "precipitants", which are essential for the chemical purification of water, has fallen by over 50 percent due to the energy crisis - a quarter of German sewage treatment plants have reported supply shortages. [...]
Interview on pesticide approval - Have agrochemical companies deliberately forgotten studies?
Several manufacturers, including Syngenta and Bayer, have withheld data on the risks of their crop protection products. This is shown by an investigation - its author provides information here.
On dry land - How large corporations exploit our water resources | Doku HD Reupload | ARTE
The methods used by large mineral water companies have long been criticized: resources are being exploited in distant countries. But even before our...
Sweetened drinks - "We are not biologically programmed for sweeteners"
Anyone who chooses "light" assumes a healthier drink. However, the WHO is now issuing a warning - as is a sugar researcher.
Environmental protection in Baden-Württemberg: Dozens of trace substances float in our rivers
For the first time in nine years, the state government has presented a report on trace substances in rivers. The situation has not improved since then. Pharmaceuticals in particular are a problem.
In Switzerland, drinking water pipes must be flushed every 72 hours. And if not?
In Switzerland, over 600 people are infected with legionella every year. And the trend is rising.
How pesticide exports are finding their way back onto the shelves - infosperber
The popular summer drink Caipirinha is a toxic cocktail contaminated with pesticides, warns Greenpeace.
Nanoparticles in our heads: How microplastics penetrate our brains
Tiny plastic particles are now everywhere. An international team of researchers has now discovered how microplastics even overcome the protective blood-brain barrier and enter our brains in a very short time.
Poison in Lake Zurich: Uetiker fear "spread"
The toxic substances in the lake bed near Uetikon ZH are only to be filled in and not removed. Local residents criticize the authorities' cost-cutting solution.
Is fluoride beneficial or rather harmful?
In some countries, fluoride is added to drinking water to prevent tooth decay. But too much fluoride should be avoided. But not because of the pineal gland, as some say.
Eschenbach SG: Quartierbach polluted by drilling mud
On Friday evening, a local stream on Schrennenstrasse in Eschenbach SG was polluted. It is suspected that drilling mud got into the stream.
Fish kills: Incidents have increased in recent years
We keep hearing about dead fish in streams and rivers. The reasons are usually water pollution or contamination by chemical substances. But often nobody really knows where the substances come from and what can be done about them.
Bulle FR: Watercourse of L'Ondine polluted by liquid manure
On Wednesday, the L'Ondine watercourse between Bulle FR and Riaz FR was polluted by liquid manure that had previously flowed onto a field in Bulle FR.
Pollution Hauptwiler Weiher: what the canton says
A year ago, the Office for the Environment detected pollution in the Hauptwil pond. It turned out that the pollution was hardly visible, but was nevertheless bad for the water.
Hundreds of square meters of Lake Neuchâtel polluted
A large area of Lake Neuchâtel near Portalban FR has been polluted by fuel. The reason is a boat that sank in the harbor, as the ...
In Switzerland, drinking water pipes must be flushed every 72 hours. And if not?
In Switzerland, over 600 people are infected with legionella every year. And the trend is rising.
Water supply at risk
An objection has made it impossible to renew the groundwater pumping station in Grünfeld. This blockade, the drought and lack of electricity are jeopardizing the water supply, writes "Wasserversorgung Rapperswil-Jona".
Oftringen: Lauterbach polluted with liquid manure - cleaning was unsuccessful
On Monday evening, a farmer spread liquid manure and presumably contaminated the Lauterbach stream. The Oftringen fire department tried to pump out the contaminated water - but was unsuccessful.
"Schlauer i d'Wuche" - Is tap water with a lot of limescale harmful?
Highly calcareous water has no effect on health - unless you drink a lot of it.
EU authority: Continued major risks from pesticide use in Europe
The use of chemical pesticides is still widespread in agriculture. This has consequences for insects and nature, but also for us.
Drinking water could increase the risk of autism
Unicef: 1000 children die every day due to contaminated drinking water
According to UN Children's Fund Unicef, polluted drinking water and a lack of sanitary infrastructure endanger the lives of many adolescents worldwide.
This is how much water beef needs
Zuzwil/Wuppenau: Hundreds of trout die in polluted stream
A still unknown liquid polluted the Wuppenauerbach stream on Saturday and, via this, the Zuzwil village stream. Hundreds of brown trout died over a stretch of four kilometers. The Thurf fishermen, who raise fry in the village stream, were lucky: The water was recently fished out.
Interactive map shows you the quality of Zurich's drinking water
The cantonal laboratory carries out regular checks on drinking water. The results of the tests can now be viewed online on the "Züri ...
Global supply - this is what the UN Water Conference is all about
For the first time in 46 years, the international community is discussing the issue. This is necessary because time is pressing.
Forever Chemicals: What are PFAS and why are they dangerous?
All over the world, rainwater cannot be consumed without health concerns. This is due to an artificial substance that is present in all of our...
Pollutant PFAS in Swiss soil and water | Report 2023 | Kassensturz | SRF
PFAS chemicals are found in countless products. Including in extinguishing foam, as used by the fire department and civil defense for decades. To extinguish real fires...
Liquid manure pollutes streams
Debate about drinking water - "Our hands are tied": Will the Valais spring go to China?
An entrepreneur in the Valais municipality of Turtmann could sell his water rights to China. This is causing a stir.
Nestlé also turns drinking water into gold abroad
UN study: bottled water undermines sustainability goals
Water crisis far outweighs energy crisis | Presseportal-schweiz.ch
(Bern)(PPS) The motto of UN World Water Day 2023 on March 22 is "Accelerating change". The Swiss foundation ZEROWATERLOSS supports this message with its appeal: "The incipient scarcity of strategic water, i.e. drinking water from the tap, and water in general is also affecting Switzerland and Europe...
Living: How to dose detergent sustainably and efficiently
Many of us just estimate the amount of detergent and then tip it into the machine. That's not sustainable. And expensive. Living cheaply is different.
Contaminated drinking water in Lucerne: the warning via the Alertswiss app came too late
The city wants to be better prepared for incidents such as the water pollution in summer 2022: The warning app is to be activated more quickly and flyers printed in several languages.
The surge tank sits on dry land
Food security has been enshrined in the constitution since 2017. The Swiss Farmers' Association writes on its website: "Food security cannot be taken for granted: limited cultiv...
Interview on toxic chemicals - "There are some problematic hotspots in Switzerland"
European media are sounding the alarm: thousands of sites across Europe have been identified as being contaminated with toxic PFAS chemicals. Expert Martin Scheringer explains the poison of the century.
Liquid manure pollutes stream - fish die - Schweizer Bauer
At midday on Thursday, liquid manure leaked from a farm near Mathon GR. The liquid manure entered a stream. Fish died as a result. According to the police, liquid manure was transferred on the farm at around 11.30 am. For around 15 minutes, slurry flowed down a meadow instead of into another slurry tank. How much liquid manure leaked [...]
"Perpetual chemicals" in toilet paper pose a danger to humans
Toilet paper is full of chemicals. This is the result of a new study from the USA. The "eternal chemicals", PFAS, can lead to cancer and infertility. They have also already been detected in Switzerland - in drinking water.
Toxic substances - map of eternal pollution: PFAS can be found here
PFAS are substances that can be dangerous to humans. A map of Europe shows how widespread they are.
Chemical in drinking water: wells shut down
Following the discovery of a chemical in the drinking water, two wells in the town of Neuötting have been switched off. Neuötting and Altötting are now being supplied from other wells, said the operations manager of the water supply for the Altötting area, Alois Wieser, when asked on Monday. Bayerischer Rundfunk had first reported on the shutdown.
Is liquid manure causing the blue-green algae epidemic in Swiss lakes?
Blue-green algae are contaminating Lakes Zug and Aegeri in Switzerland. The stinking algae are dangerous for humans and animals. The Swissveg association sees factory farming as the cause.
134 sites with persistent chemicals in Switzerland
There are 134 locations in Switzerland where there are problematic concentrations of perfluorinated and polyfluorinated alkyl compounds (PFAS).
What a sweetener reveals about the origin of drinking water - Schweizer Bauer
The sweetener acesulfame can be found as a sugar substitute in drinks, dairy products and toothpaste, for example. As the compound is not broken down significantly either in the body or as part of wastewater treatment in sewage treatment plants, the concentration can be used to estimate how much of the former wastewater is in drinking water. Viennese researchers have now shown that the substance is more volatile in summer [...]
Malters: Water pollution leads to fish and crayfish deaths - Zofinger Tagblatt
These 25 places must now boil their water
The water supply association has found bacteria in the tap water. Which districts are affected and what everyone should pay attention to now.
Swiss drinking water: Where does it come from? Who checks the quality?
It simply flows out of the tap and is drunk as a matter of course: Swiss drinking water. What requirements it must meet and what is recommended in terms of health.
Contaminated groundwater - drinking water can be purified with an activated carbon filter
Successful pilot test: the degradation products of a pesticide were filtered out of the drinking water.
Think about pressing pots and harvest residues when fertilizing vegetables to protect water bodies - bauernzeitung.ch
How much nitrate is leached out is primarily determined by mineralization and thus the nitrogen that is already present in the soil. What remains in the field after harvesting and is added during planting leads to higher leaching in the long term if not taken into account.
A stream polluted in Siviriez
Yesterday, the cantonal police intervened in Siviriez due to the pollution of a stream by silt. A representative of the Office for the Environment, the game warden and the fire department from the Romont base also went to the site. The ecosystem was affected. An investigation is underway.
"We can't recycle our way out of the plastic crisis"
Every Swiss person produces almost 95 kilograms of plastic waste per year. Of this, around 600 grams of microplastics end up in the water system of the canton of Zurich every day. We are even at the bottom of the European league, but why?
Küssnacht water supply prepares for a possible blackout
What if the water supply were to fail? There would be no more drinking and extinguishing water. That's why we need to invest.
Pesticides detected in drinking water in Basel
In a new study, the Basel cantonal laboratory tested drinking water for persistent chemical substances that can disrupt the endocrine system. The degradation substance was detected everywhere, but only in small quantities.
Germs in drinking water: people must boil water
People in parts of the district of Bayreuth have to boil their drinking water due to germ contamination. If the water is used for drinking or cooking, it must be boiled for ten minutes "as a precautionary measure", the Bayreuth district office announced on Monday. The tap water can still be used for personal hygiene and flushing the toilet. The health authority has ordered the chlorination of the contaminated drinking water.
Illegally dumped snow causes major problems
Privately cleared snow in the wrong place causes clogged and polluted waterways.
Too much fertilizer in the field
The National Council has made a name for itself as the savior of rivers and streams. Now it wants to overturn a regulation that aims to do just that.
The federal government does not know the state of our water reserves
Heat, drought, energy crisis: the water supply challenges are increasing throughout Switzerland. However, the federal government has "hardly any data for planning water resources", as it itself admits. Yet there is a promising approach.
"Less electricity also means less drinking water"
The federal government is doing everything it can to prevent an electricity shortage. In an emergency, however, water suppliers will also be affected if they have to help save electricity. The waterworks are preparing for a possible emergency scenario.
Groundwater protection zones are being adapted
The supply of drinking water to the Swiss population is mainly based on municipal and regional water supply companies. South of Zuzwil there are three groundwater wells: "Grund", "Thurau" and "Thursteg". Their protection has now been revised in line with water protection legislation.
Rottweil: Drinking water in Rottweil must be boiled for the time being
Microbiological limits were exceeded. Not all districts are affected. The water is now being chlorinated as a precaution.
Boil-off order for Pretzfeld and Altreuth
The Forchheim health authority has once again issued a boiling order for drinking water in Pretzfeld and Altreuth. After follow-up tests on...
Corminboeuf FR: "Le Tiguelet" stream polluted by chlorinated water
A stream in Corminboeuf FR was polluted on Tuesday afternoon. The chlorinated water probably came from a pool, according to the cantonal police.
St.Gallen: Water pollution in the Mannenweiher pond
Water pollution was detected in the Mannenweiher pond on Sunday morning. The cause is currently being investigated.
Soil pollution in Eggersriet: local council reprimands environmental agency
Soil is polluted in the Eggersrieter Höhe area. The municipal council is now criticizing the Canton of St.Gallen's Office for the Environment and is calling on the canton to carry out a rapid, comprehensive series of investigations, according to a statement.
Drinking water must be boiled in the suburbs and old town of Zug
During a routine check on Friday, bacterial contamination was found in the drinking water in the suburbs and old town of Zug. Those affected can now collect water free of charge.
Eggersriet: Soil contaminated with chemicals - no one knows why
The canton, municipality and farmers are faced with a conundrum. The meadow at the popular hiking destination above Eggersriet is heavily contaminated with PFOS. The cause is unknown. Extensive investigations are now starting, which will take up to a year.
Forchheim district: Water must be boiled
The drinking water of the Betzenstein Group must be boiled and chlorinated. This also affects communities in the district of Forchheim.
(S+) Nuclear waste in Switzerland: local residents worry about drinking water
Switzerland wants to build an underground repository for highly radioactive waste not far from the German border. Local residents fear the impact on their drinking water. This is how experts assess the safety of the site.
Increasing drought - Switzerland's moated castle has cracks
Due to global warming, regional water shortages will increase in summer. According to experts, a national water management system is now needed.
Chemicals: Never drink rainwater!
According to a study, rainwater is contaminated with persistent chemicals and is therefore not of drinking water quality.
Around 3000 people affected - Lucerne neighborhood has been living with contaminated drinking water for days
The drinking water in Lucerne's Langensand district has been contaminated for a week. The supplier continues to put people off.
Drinking water pollution in Aargau: it's not getting any better
Two thirds of the municipalities in Aargau have contaminated drinking water. Read the article to find out what they have done about it so far and what happens next.
Drinking water in Lucerne contaminated with bacteria
Bacterially contaminated waste water in parts of Lucerne: the authorities are calling on the affected population to boil the water. The reason for the contamination is unclear.
Precious water seeping away - lots of work for leak locators on the Swiss pipeline network
13 out of every 100 liters of drinking water are lost in rusty pipes in Switzerland. Modern technology is used to renovate them on an ongoing basis.
Entire fish population destroyed: In Buttisholz, the Rotbach was polluted by liquid manure - Zofinger Tagblatt
Should we expect a water shortage in Switzerland? | Sustainable living
The persistent drought is causing problems for flora and fauna and is taking its toll on our waters. How Switzerland's water reservoirs are faring.
Heat and drought - Low water levels, extreme heat: how the authorities are acting now
Turned-off wells, fire bans and no longer permitted car washes - the drought in Switzerland and its consequences.
Water shortage - drinking water supply to be regulated nationally
Although drinking water could become a scarce commodity, there is as yet no concept that guarantees the supply throughout the country.
Water is scarce in Mendrisio TI - no more washing cars
The residents of Mendrisio TI are being told to save water. According to the authorities, they are only allowed to use drinking water for household ...
Water levels significantly lower than usual - Schweizer Bauer
The thunderstorms of recent weeks have not caused the levels of Swiss lakes and rivers to rise. According to the Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN), they have recently been significantly lower than usual at this time of year. The levels of Swiss lakes and rivers are significantly lower than usual at this time of year. The dry first half of the year and the lack of meltwater [...]
After heavy rain: drinking water contaminated with faecal bacteria in several Bernese municipalities
In various municipalities in Bern, residents are called upon to boil their drinking water before use due to contamination.
Zurich schools consume 127,500 liters of water during the vacations
In the city of Zurich, school buildings have to turn on all the taps once a week during the summer vacation. This results in a lot of unused waste water - but it's not a waste, because it prevents legionella.
Despite thunderstorms: Swiss groundwater level is falling
Despite heavy thunderstorms in recent days, Swiss groundwater levels are falling. However, the drinking water supply is still guaranteed.
Locarno prepares for drinking water shortage
The groundwater level in Ticino is at a record low. The Office for Water Protection and Water Supply has therefore asked the municipalities around Locarno to check the water reservoirs, as drinking water is likely to become scarce in the coming weeks.
Slurry and sewage treatment plants turn the Sitter into a disgusting river
The Sitter has been struggling with declining water quality for some time now. Slurry and germs from sewage treatment plants are polluting the water. This is increasingly becoming a problem for bathers.
Water quality in Switzerland - Federal Council should do more to protect groundwater
It calls for consistent supervision by the cantons and a review of the agricultural water protection program.
Heatwave in Europe - This helps to save water
Everyone can make a small or somewhat larger contribution to saving water in their own household.
Drought alert on the River Po: Northern Italy wants to restrict drinking water at night
The situation in Lombardy and Piedmont is dramatic: the water is running out in the river's catchment area. Now the night-time drinking water supply is to be cut off in 125 municipalities in the Po Valley.
Sierre VS: population must boil drinking water
The people of Sierre VS have had to boil their drinking water since Wednesday. The reason for the undrinkable water is probably contamination by bacteria.
Gäu: Nitrate content in groundwater remains too high
The largest project in the country to reduce nitrate levels in groundwater has been running in the Gäu since 2000. Rainer Hug from the Solothurn Office for the Environment explains what has been achieved and where the problems lie.
Does Lucerne also have a drinking water problem?
After a drinking water problem came to light in St. Gallen, Lucerne now appears to have similar concerns. Checks there revealed that 71% of drinking water supplies would have a problem in an emergency.
Warning in Zell lifted - residents can drink water again without boiling
On Tuesday, the canton suspected that the drinking water in Zell was contaminated. The all-clear has now been given.
Switzerland: Number of legionellosis cases has increased fivefold since 2000
The number of cases of legionellosis in Switzerland has increased fivefold over the past 20 years. A study published in the International Journal of Hygiene and Environmental Health by the Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute (Swiss TPH) analyzes the number of cases from 2000 to 2020 and sheds light on the possible impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on reporting figures. In recent years, researchers have observed an increase in the number of cases during the summer months, Swiss TPH reported. Switzerland has one of the highest incidences of legionellosis in Europe. Legionellosis is caused by bacteria of the genus Legionella and occurs in two different forms, the more severe and widespread of which is known as Legionnaires' disease. The Legionella bacteria are transmitted through water or soil and can cause severe pneumonia. Although the disease can be treated with antibiotics, it is fatal in around ten percent of all cases, according to the institute. Legionnaires' disease is notifiable in Switzerland. The number of cases is monitored by the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH). Since 2000, the number of reported cases of legionellosis in Switzerland has risen steadily, from 140 cases per year at the beginning of the 2000s to around 500 per year between 2016 and 2020, Swiss TPH explained in more detail. The upward trend reached a temporary peak in 2018 and stabilized at this level. It was only in 2020 that the number of cases fell again, presumably in connection with the COVID-19 pandemic, the researchers say in their study....
St.Gallen: In an emergency, the city quickly runs out of drinking water
The St.Gallen City Council's report in response to a postulate submitted two years ago has raised eyebrows: Since the construction of the football stadium, shopping center and new roads in Breitfeld, groundwater can no longer be pumped in an emergency for quality reasons, so a new lake water plant has to be built at a cost of around CHF 40 million. Otherwise, drinking water in the city will very quickly become scarce in the event of an emergency.
16 million additional loan - 5000 tons of highly toxic soil in Prattl groundwater
During the construction of the new Rhine road, 80,000 tons of soil had to be transferred to landfill sites - and groundwater monitoring had to be installed for the Löli area.
Hochdorf: There are chemicals in the drinking water | zentralplus
Scientists have found pesticide residues in the drinking water of Hochdorf. The responsible utility company WWZ is investigating the
"Kassensturz": Plant toxins in Swiss drinking water - also in mineral water - Media portal
The worrying chemical trifluoroacetate (TFA) has been discovered in Swiss drinking water - including mineral water: this is the result of investigations by SRF Investigativ presented by "Kassensturz". The authorities are waiting. Next: Real estate company runs innocent people. And trekking rucksacks put to the test. Kathrin Winzenried presents the program.
Pesticides in groundwater
Pesticides exceed the limit of 0.1 micrograms per liter at around 2% of monitoring sites every year. In addition, degradation products ("metabolites") of pesticides occur in concentrations of more than 0.1 micrograms per liter in groundwater at one in three monitoring sites nationwide. They have a considerable impact on groundwater quality, particularly on the Central Plateau.
Switzerland launches consultation on the Water Protection Ordinance
The Swiss Federal Council has opened the consultation on the revised Water Protection Ordinance. Drinking water and surface waters are to be better protected against pesticides. The aim is to strengthen the safe availability of high-quality drinking water and contribute to the preservation of biodiversity....
Secret level 1 applies to pesticides, medicines and Covid vaccines - infosperber
It's about the risk of illness and death. Nevertheless, the authorities do not ensure transparency. A notorious grievance.
Synthetic sprays - Pesticides as a health hazard: Are the authorities too lax in their checks?
Damage to humans cannot be ruled out, say chemists and toxicologists.
Drinking water mission
Climate change has thrown natural water reservoirs out of balance - fresh water reserves are beginning to shrink. How do we save them?
Arctic garbage dump - plankton and sperm whale in plastic waste
The Arctic is alarmingly polluted with plastic waste - with serious consequences for animals and climate change.
TV program - srf.ch - Program "SRF DOK" - 7.4.2022 20:05 h
The TV program for today, yesterday and the next 30 days for SRF, ZDF, ARD, RTL, 3+, Pro7 and many more
Despite 20 springs in Switzerland - Every second mineral water in Switzerland is imported | Tages-Anzeiger
Guntenbach polluted with liquid manure: Authorities fear fish mortality
Slurry leaked in Sigriswil on Wednesday and got into the Guntenbach. This was polluted over a length of around four kilometers. The authorities assume that numerous creatures have died.
Chemicals in the water? Cantonal councillor calls for investigation into PFAS
Are there excessive concentrations of toxic substances in drinking water in the canton of Solothurn? A cantonal councillor calls for investigations.
Chlorothalonil and drought - Time is of the essence: What are communities doing for clean drinking water?
Drinking water often contains degradation substances of the fungicide chlorothalonil. Water suppliers need solutions quickly.
Groundwater recharge in Sulgen through Thurwasser
The goal is a constantly high groundwater level
Research - "Microplastics in the blood don't surprise me"
Researchers find the plastic in human blood. For Empa expert Peter Wick, this is no cause for excitement.
FDFA: Switzerland at the World Water Forum in Dakar
Bern - From March 21 to 26, 2022, Switzerland will take part in the World Water Forum in Dakar, the capital of Senegal. The 9th edition of the forum ...
Groundwater is overused and polluted
Water - The United Nations is calling for better protection and management of groundwater worldwide.
This is how much water beef consumes - Schweizer Bauer
How much water is used to manufacture a product? This is an important question when it comes to assessing the environmental impact of a product such as beef. The answer is usually based on "virtual water". A differentiated view is worthwhile. According to the Water Footprint Network, a cup of coffee requires 132 liters of water, a glass of milk 255 liters, a kilo of corn 1222 [...]
Motion for financing of water treatment by polluters surprisingly accepted - bauernzeitung.ch
Costs incurred to maintain the quality of drinking water should be financed by the polluters. The National Council adopted the motion by Kurt Fluri (FDP/SO) contrary to expectations and the recommendation of the Federal Council.
Luteren: All the fish died due to slurry leakage
Liquid manure flowed into the Luteren on Saturday. The cantonal fisheries office assumes that all the fish in a side stream of the Luteren have died. The ecosystems in the surrounding waters are likely to take years to recover.
"Additional costs for the treatment of drinking water should be borne by those responsible" - bauernzeitung.ch
The National Council is debating a motion that provides for the financing of new drinking water treatment infrastructure according to the polluter-pays principle. However, it is still unclear who will be responsible for the millions in additional costs.
Amcor scandal: WWF says incident could jeopardize fish consumption
After it became known that almost three tons of toxic extinguishing foam had been released into Lake Constance, WWF St.Gallen carried out its own calculations. It came to the conclusion that drinking water and safe fish consumption could be at risk. The canton has given the all-clear for drinking water. For fish, the answer is contradictory.
The number of environmental chemicals is becoming unmanageable - infosperber
The amount of artificial chemicals is reaching a level that could make the Earth uninhabitable in the long term, scientists warn.
Major corporation poisons Lake Constance with banned chemical
Almost three tons of toxic extinguishing foam have flowed into Lake Constance from the premises of the Australian packaging company Amcor Flexibles Rorschach AG in Goldach. The company initially tried to conceal the incidents. Now the public prosecutor's office has sentenced it to a fine of CHF 5,000 and a compensation claim of CHF 28,000.
Valais discovers high concentrations of chemicals in fish
A high dose of chemicals was discovered in fish in Valais. Fishing in the affected quarry pond is now temporarily banned.
Benzidine in Gamsen VS - Groundwater must be strictly monitored due to toxic substances
Elevated levels of toxic chemicals were measured in the groundwater below the Gamsensried toxic waste landfill site in Upper Valais.
Uitikon continues to record high chlorothalonil levels in the water from the Landikon pumping station
Officially, there is no longer a limit value for chlorothalonil residues in drinking water. At the same time, the federal government warns of high concentrations of the substance.
"The whole life is ruined": Mühlelibach polluted with liquid manure
A tributary of the Sitter was polluted by several cubic meters of liquid manure on Monday afternoon. Despite rapid intervention by the authorities, fish died and the surrounding area was polluted.
Global problem: pharmaceuticals pollute rivers - Schweizer Bauer
An international team with Swiss participation has investigated pharmaceutical pollution along 258 rivers worldwide. According to the study, the concentrations at more than a quarter of the sites are potentially toxic to humans and the environment. Numerous studies have already investigated the extent to which rivers are polluted with active pharmaceutical ingredients. However, different methods of analysis have been used, different substances [...]
Chemicals for eternity - PFAS: The poison that lurks in our everyday objects
Countless products contain PFAS - a group of substances that repel dirt and water. But the substance harbors dangers.
Chlorothalonil metabolites still present in elevated concentrations over large areas - bauernzeitung.ch
The analyses of the degradation products of the controversial fungicide from 2020 are a déjà vu of the previous year, although chlorothalonil has been banned in Switzerland for two years. The health significance of the metabolites is still being debated.
Chlorothalonil: 33% limit value exceeded - Schweizer Bauer
Degradation products of the fungicide chlorothalonil pollute groundwater on a large scale, particularly on the Swiss Plateau. According to a compilation by the Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN), the measured values are above the limit value of 0.1 micrograms at every third measuring point. However, the limit value is controversial. The Federal Office for Agriculture approved the use of chlorothalonil in the 1970s. The active ingredient was used in cereal, [...]
Oil spill pollutes tropical sandy beach in the Gulf of Thailand
An oil slick has reached the coast of the Thai province of Rayong, which is popular with tourists. The famous tropical sandy beach Mae Ram Phueng Beach around ...
Wunsiedel area: Germs in drinking water - drinking water must be boiled
Coliform bacteria have been detected in the Wunsiedel drinking water supply system during a routine check. Until further notice, it is therefore forbidden for residents of the entire town of Wunsiedel, as well as the districts of Holenbrunn, Schönbrunn/Furthammer, Valetsberg, Breitenbrunn
Water sector plan published - Schweizer Bauer
Sustainable water management is a constant and increasingly important challenge for the Jura authorities. With the publication of its water sector plan (PsEaux), the government sets out the guidelines and measures to be taken for the population and the environment over the next decade. In the canton of Jura, many projects have been implemented over the last 40 years around rivers, [...]
Fish die in Eschenbach due to construction site wastewater
The water in the Mülibach stream in Eschenbach was polluted by concrete water on Wednesday. Fish died along a section of around 1.5 kilometers.
Goldach spring water is chemically contaminated
The Cantonal Office for Consumer Protection and Veterinary Affairs has carried out a chemical analysis of the water from the Höhe, Altburg and Feldmoos springs. An elevated level of the substance perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) was detected in two springs. These were taken off the water supply network as a precautionary measure. According to municipal president Dominik Gemperli, continuous measurements show that the values (without PFOS) in the network are now good.
Radioactive substances, arsenic and germs in well water in Glarus and Graubünden
Food inspectors tested 527 drinking water samples from public wells in Eastern Switzerland. The complaint rate is 5.7%
Drinking water supply: Households around Milmersdorf have to boil water | Nordkurier.de
Enterococci were detected during a regular sampling of the Milmersdorf waterworks. The public health department reacts.
Water supply: Why there are chemicals in the drinking water in Löcknitz and the surrounding area | Nordkurier.de
Only about two months ago, snails caused contaminated drinking water in Ladenthin. Now chlorine is being added to the drinking water in Löcknitz and the surrounding communities. Why?
Drinking water at BER Airport is contaminated with fecal bacteria
Once again there are problems at Berlin's BER airport. This time, a routine inspection has revealed that drinking water is contaminated with faecal bacteria. The operator warns against drinking the water, as it can cause diarrhea and vomiting, among other things.
The Ocean Cleanup: 29 tons of plastic collected in the Pacific
The oceans are being polluted by plastic waste. In a test phase, The Ocean Cleanup collected 29 tons of plastic waste from the ocean surface.
Questions about nitrate and colon cancer - Schweizer Bauer
National Councillor Michael Töngi (Greens, LU) has submitted an interpellation entitled "The health risk of nitrate levels in drinking water". He refers to a study published by the Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office in the Swiss Nutrition Report 2021. According to the data analyzed from Denmark and the USA, it cannot be ruled out that nitrate intake via drinking water poses a [...]
Lidl removes Nestlé product from its range
Nestlé products are always present when shopping for food. However, the company is repeatedly criticized for environmental sins. Lidl has now completely removed one of the manufacturer's products from its range.
Climate change - half the world could have too little drinking water by 2050
Both devastating floods and drinking water shortages are getting worse worldwide, but only a few countries are prepared to cope with the crises.
Lohn-Ammannsegg reports limit values exceeded in drinking water
Testing of the drinking water in Lohn-Ammannsegg revealed elevated levels of the fungicide chlorothalonil.
Eschenbach SG: Stream water polluted
Between Friday afternoon and Monday morning, September 6, a stream water pollution occurred in Eschenbach SG.
Water quality in Lake Constance - questions and answers
Anti-epileptic drugs, X-ray contrast agents, pesticides and industrial chemicals: a cocktail of different substances enters Lake Constance via the tributaries. Should anyone who drinks water from the Swabian Sea worry? The most important questions and answers.
Contaminated drinking water - acquittal for farmer despite cattle's complicity
The High Court sees no breach of the farmer's duty of care. Nevertheless, a couple must treat their drinking water summer after summer.
Drinking water contamination in Wünnewil FR
In the village of Wünnewil in the canton of Fribourg, residents have had to boil their drinking water since Friday. The reason is contamination.
Rueyres VD: Drinking water again contaminated with bacteria
The municipalities of Rueyres and Bercher VD are once again warning of contaminated drinking water. Residents had to boil their water for a week at the beginning of July.
Cause is being clarified - unusually high number of gastrointestinal illnesses registered within a short period of time
In order to prevent further cases, the canton of Lucerne is investigating the causes. Possible triggers include contaminated drinking water or contact with contaminated water.
Contaminated drinking water in Gibloux - Schweizer Bauer
The drinking water in the Fribourg municipality of Gibloux is contaminated. Since Tuesday evening, the tap water can no longer be drunk or used for brushing teeth. It is also no longer suitable for preparing food. Washing dishes with the water is also not possible. The reason is microbiological contamination, as announced by the canton of Fribourg on the "Alertswiss" alert platform. The [...]
Contaminated drinking water in Affoltern: tap water must be boiled
The authorities are warning that the drinking water in Affoltern im Emmental is contaminated. The tap water must be boiled before use. It is still unclear why the water is contaminated and how long it will be before it can be used again without worry.
Up to 16 toxic substances in the Hahnenburger
Swiss drinking water is worse than its reputation. This is shown by recent measurements by K-Tipp. In the municipality of Höri ZH, the water from the tap contains more than a dozen different toxins.
"K-Tipp" samples show that Swiss drinking water is full of pesticides
Measurements by "K-Tipp" show: Residues of various pesticides can be detected in Swiss drinking water. Even those that are actually already banned.
"K-Tipp" samples show that Swiss drinking water is full of pesticides
Measurements by "K-Tipp" show: Residues of various pesticides can be detected in Swiss drinking water. Even those that are actually already banned.
Are we living in a pesticide hell?
Everyone is talking about drinking water - but the damage caused by pesticides to the ecosystem is much clearer than their dangers to humans.
Endless shortcomings: the approval process for pesticides in Switzerland - Greenpeace
In the run-up to the vote on June 13, we took a look at the approval process for pesticides in Switzerland and found that there are problems everywhere.
Overfertilization harms biodiversity: Too much liquid manure in the air (Be+)
Pigs, chickens and cattle pollute the environment with nitrogen. Plants, insects and birds suffer as a result - for example in the canton of Lucerne.
Thurgau's agriculture places a heavy burden on the environment
The groundwater in Thurgau is heavily contaminated with pesticides. Nitrogen input from the air is also high. According to a study by the Vision Landwirtschaft think tank, no other canton has such a high level of environmental pollution. However, there is also something random about the ranking.
Trifluoroacetate - forever in our drinking water? - Without poison
What are the long-term effects of trifluoroacetate in drinking water? So far, the authorities are only guessing. A large proportion probably comes from pesticides that are widely used in agriculture.
Billions in fines - Bayer also loses second glyphosate appeal in the USA
A US appeals court on Friday upheld a verdict against the Bayer Group over the effects of the weedkiller Roundup.
Liquid manure gets into stream - fish die - Schweizer Bauer
Liquid manure contaminated the Wissibach stream in Buchholterberg BE on Monday morning. Numerous fish died as a result. The perpetrator will be reported to the police. The pollution was reported to the police shortly before midday on Monday. A patrol discovered numerous dead fish. The source of the pollution was subsequently identified. The leakage of a large amount of liquid manure was traced back to a pumping line [...]
F.A.Z. series Schneller Schlau: Will water be scarce in summer?
Germany is actually a country rich in water. But droughts are already causing problems - and the situation is getting worse. Soil data shows which regions are most affected.
Comment - Limit value for chlorothalonil lifted: Lawsuit helps nothing against pesticide criticism
Following a lawsuit by Syngenta, there is no longer a limit value for the pesticide chlorothalonil in drinking water. Municipalities no longer have to test their water for pesticide residues - just two months before the vote on the drinking water and pesticide initiative.
No trace in Rorbas - reason for smelly drinking water remains unexplained
It will probably never be known why a foul smell spread through the drinking water in Rorba on New Year's Eve.
Water as a raw material: Switzerland is worried about its blue gold
Switzerland has large water reserves. Every household has access to clean drinking water at all times. Or does it? Cracks are appearing in Switzerland's water castle.
Drinking water again exceeds maximum levels of chlorothalonil
The water quality of Lake Biel is subject to major fluctuations. Last summer, the ESB took measures to treat the drinking water, but according to the latest measurements, these are not as effective as expected.
Pesticide use is falling but toxicity levels are rising
The good news is that the use of pesticides on agricultural land has been falling steadily for years. The bad news is that this...
Health in Winterthur - Winti water has "very good" quality
Good drinking water continues to flow from the city's taps and fountains. However, Stadtwerk had to react to keep pesticides out.
Unprecedented environmental scandal - Swiss national park contaminated - and the poison continues to spread
A river is poisoned. The canton wants to clean it up, the power plant operator doesn't want to pay, the park management files an appeal. What's going on in Graubünden? An answer in 5 points.
Unprecedented environmental scandal - Swiss national park contaminated - and the poison continues to spread
A river is poisoned. The canton wants to clean it up, the power plant operator doesn't want to pay, the park management files an appeal. What's going on in Graubünden? An answer in 5 points.
Contaminated drinking water: the federal government is put in its place
A bitter dispute is raging between the agrochemical company Syngenta and the federal government. The issue is whether the pesticide chlorothalonil should be classified as "probably carcinogenic". Now the federal government has to take information off the internet again.
Drinking water in Lörrach is contaminated with bacteria
The drinking water in Lörrach is contaminated. It is recommended to boil the water before use.
Switzerland: Searching for traces of pesticides in agricultural soils
In a comprehensive study, Agroscope analyzed the distribution of pesticide residues in Swiss agricultural soils and their potential impact on soil life.
Microplastics: Too much lint in the Arctic Ocean - infosperber
The Arctic Ocean is teeming with microplastics, with washed-out clothing fibers in particular polluting the seas.
Pesticides in drinking water - How contaminated is our "Hahnenburger"?
Toxic substances are repeatedly detected in Swiss drinking water. A new measuring method is intended to sharpen the focus.
Pesticides in groundwater: these municipalities have a problem - Blick
Research shows in which municipalities in Switzerland the groundwater is most heavily contaminated with pesticides. BLICK clarifies the current situation.
Mineral water: pesticide residues found in Evian
Evian describes its mineral water as particularly clear and pure. However, scientists have now found residues of the pesticide chlorothalonil.
EU-wide problem: Chemicals in tap water cause thousands of deaths a year
Around five percent of all bladder cancer cases in Europe are attributable to trihalomethanes in drinking water, a by-product of drinking water disinfection. This was the result of an EU study. A solution is not in sight.
More lime
Calcium carbonate, often simply called lime, forms a previously unknown crystal structure, as researchers led by P. Fratzl from the Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces have discovered.