PFAS: Drinking water in Switzerland contaminated with PFAS

PFAS: Drinking water in Switzerland contaminated with PFAS

What are PFAS and why are they problematic?

PFAS (per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances) are a group of synthetic chemicals that have been used in a variety of products since the 1940s. Their water-, grease- and dirt-repellent properties have made PFAS indispensable in many industries - from non-stick cookware to water-repellent clothing and fire extinguishing foams. These "forever chemicals" are characterized by their extreme durability and degrade very slowly in the environment.

PFAS can now be detected in drinking water worldwide, including in Switzerland. Their accumulation in the body poses serious health risks, including

• Liver problems
• Hormonal disorders
• Impairment of the immune system
• Increased risk of certain types of cancer

PFAS are not only harmful to health, but also have a serious impact on the environment. Once they enter the groundwater, they spread quickly and persist for decades.

PFAS in Switzerland: The current situation

Switzerland is facing a growing challenge: PFAS have been detected in groundwater and drinking water in numerous regions. A recent study by the Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN) shows that contaminated sites are far more common than previously assumed. Particularly affected are areas near industrial plants where PFAS-containing fire extinguishing foams were used, as well as intensively farmed regions on the Central Plateau. Here, trifluoroacetic acid (TFA), a particularly problematic PFAS compound, is discharged directly from pesticides into the groundwater.

The results are alarming: TFA was detected in almost all groundwater samples tested and is considered to be particularly persistent. Due to its chemical properties, which make it extremely persistent and water-soluble, TFA is often referred to as an "eternal chemical". Studies indicate that these substances are not only difficult to break down, but also pose long-term health risks. Animal studies suggest that TFA is toxic to the liver and can impair fertility.

In the city of Basel, it was also found that PFAS pollution in some areas is well above the EU's recommended limits. Such hotspots show that the situation urgently needs to be addressed. The widespread presence of PFAS in the environment not only poses a threat to water quality, but also has a serious impact on public health.

Figures and scientific findings show that PFAS can be dangerous even in low concentrations. This makes it all the more important that both households and companies take measures to effectively remove these pollutants from water. With Evodrop's advanced filtration solutions, these "eternal chemicals" can be completely filtered out of the water, which not only helps to improve water quality, but also to protect health.

PFAS in Germany: a growing challenge

PFAS pollution is also becoming an increasingly urgent problem in Germany. Studies show that PFAS can be detected in groundwater and drinking water in many regions of Germany. Areas near airports, military bases and industrial plants, where fire extinguishing foams containing PFAS have been used for decades, are particularly contaminated. In some regions, such as North Rhine-Westphalia and Bavaria, concentrations have been measured that are far above the permissible limits.

The German Federal Environment Agency has classified PFAS as one of the greatest risks to drinking water quality due to their persistence and toxic effect. The spread of PFAS via rivers such as the Rhine is particularly problematic, as it also encourages widespread contamination of the water. In many regions, the use of modern filter systems is therefore necessary in order to remove these pollutants from the water and meet the increasing demands on water quality.

Politicians have reacted to the growing dangers and the first measures for stricter regulation of PFAS have been adopted. Nevertheless, the effective filtration of PFAS, as offered by Evodrop, remains a crucial solution for households and businesses to ensure their water quality in the long term.

PFAS in Austria: exposure in the Alpine country

Austria has not been spared from global PFAS pollution either. Although the country has comparatively clean water due to its mountainous topography, increasing levels of PFAS contamination have been detected in groundwater in recent years. Regions around Vienna, Graz and Linz are particularly affected due to industrial settlements and agricultural use. Chemicals from fertilizers and industrial wastewater can get into the groundwater here.

A study by the Austrian Federal Environment Agency has shown that PFAS can be detected in some groundwater samples, particularly in the vicinity of heavily industrialized areas. The use of PFAS-containing fire extinguishing foams in large fires has also contributed to the spread of these pollutants.

The Austrian authorities have begun to introduce stricter limits for PFAS in drinking water. Nevertheless, there is still a need for action, as the comprehensive monitoring and remediation of contaminated sites is still in its infancy. For households and businesses in Austria, modern water filter systems such as those offered by Evodrop are an effective way of eliminating PFAS and other pollutants and ensuring high water quality in the long term.

Evodrop's solution: completely remove PFAS from the water

Evodrop AG offers innovative water treatment technologies that effectively eliminate PFAS and other pollutants. Our systems are the only ones on the market that have been proven in laboratory tests to filter 100% of PFAS for an entire house, just in a kitchen, or in the food service industry—a milestone in water treatment.

Our systems and their performance:

EVOdrink (microfiltration in the kitchen)

• Test result: Reduces PFAS by 97%.
• Particularly suitable for private households and offices, it supplies pure, pollutant-free water straight from the tap.
• Additional benefits: Filters microplastics, heavy metals and pesticides.

EVOhome (filtration and descaling for an entire house on request)

• Test result: Removes PFAS completely (100%).
• Developed for the whole house installation, it offers security for the whole family.
• Additional benefits: Removes limescale and improves the taste of the water.

Both systems were tested in a Swiss laboratory. The results prove that our solutions are market-leading and meet the highest quality standards.

On request, Evodrop offers the best alternative to conventional salt systems on the market. Evodrop's decalcification system was awarded the top rating of 1 by the accredited DVGW laboratory. It performed better than salt systems.

CTI certification: internationally recognized exams

CTI (Centre Testing International) is one of the world's largest testing, inspection, and certification companies, with over 13,000 employees and 160 laboratories in more than 90 countries. Our systems have been tested by CTI and achieved an impressive limescale protection rating, receiving the top score of 1. This result confirms the high effectiveness of our systems in limescale treatment.

Technologies for removing PFAS from drinking water - What really works?

The contamination of drinking water with PFAS is a serious environmental problem that requires advanced filter technologies. However, not every method is equally effective. Here is an overview of the most common methods for removing PFAS from water:

Why Evodrop is the better solution

While conventional filter systems often only remove some of the PFAS from the water, Evodrop has been able to prove in independent Swiss laboratory tests that our water filters eliminate 100% of PFAS. Thanks to innovative multi-stage filtration, Evodrop systems are a safe solution against PFAS in drinking water for households as well as commercial and catering establishments.
  

Try it now: Experience clean, PFAS-free water—with Evodrop!

Why Evodrop?

Evodrop stands for innovation, sustainability and quality. Our systems combine state-of-the-art technologies with environmentally friendly approaches and guarantee:

• 100% removal of PFAS
• Certified safety: All components are tested by SGS, ROHS, and FDA.
• Sustainable technologies: Our systems require no electricity or wastewater and are low-maintenance.
• Customer satisfaction: Supported by up to 20 years warranty and comprehensive service.

Evodrop is not just a provider of water treatment systems, but a pioneer that sets new standards in the industry. Our approach combines innovation, sustainability and the highest quality to provide our customers with the best solutions for clean drinking water. Here are the reasons why Evodrop is the first choice when it comes to water treatment:

Google reviews: What customers say about Evodrop

Trust is good, real experience is better. Numerous customers share their personal impressions of Evodrop on Google, from the simple installation to the noticeable water improvement and reliable customer service.

With a steadily growing number of positive reviews and high star ratings, it is clear that choosing Evodrop is worthwhile, not only technically, but also in everyday life. See for yourself how satisfied real users are and discover how Evodrop is rethinking water treatment.

EVOgastro: The perfect solution for trade and gastronomy

With EVOgastro, Evodrop offers a tailor-made solution for restaurants and businesses that meets the highest standards of water quality. This system has been specially developed to provide excellent water in restaurants, hotels and other commercial environments - chilled, sparkling or still.

Key features of EVOgastro:

1. Filtration at the highest level: The patented filtration module has been proven to remove pollutants down to a size of 0.002 micrometers. This includes microplastics, pesticides, heavy metals and other contaminants that could affect water quality. The result is pure water that will delight your guests and staff alike.
2. Innovative water treatment: EVOgastro combines advanced filtration with a unique refinement process. More oxygen is integrated into the water, resulting in a fresh, soft taste and improving the conductivity and solubility of the water.
3. Cooling and sparkling function: With an integrated CO2 condenser and an innovative continuous cooling system, the water can be cooled or sparkling water added as required. The high filling speed makes EVOgastro particularly efficient, even with high water consumption.
4. Sustainability and efficiency: EVOgastro requires neither electricity nor waste water, making it an environmentally friendly and cost-efficient solution. Maintenance costs are minimal, and by eliminating bottled water you reduce both costs and CO2 emissions.
5. Ease of use: The specially developed tap modules are easy to operate and offer a modern, attractive design.

Advantages for gastronomy and trade:

• Cost savings: With a price per liter of only CHF 0.03, the system pays for itself in a very short time and saves considerable annual costs compared to bottled water.
• Sustainability: Reduce your ecological footprint by avoiding plastic and glass bottles.
• Flexibility: Whether still, chilled or sparkling - EVOgastro offers the right solution for every taste.

With EVOgastro, you are opting for a solution that perfectly combines quality, efficiency and sustainability. Offer your guests and employees the best - pure, freshly filtered water straight from the tap.

Certificates and awards: Quality and innovation at the highest level

Evodrop sets new standards in water treatment and is internationally recognized for this. Our systems combine state-of-the-art technology, sustainability and user-friendly design - a successful concept that has been proven by numerous awards and certificates. Here are the most important honors and certifications that distinguish our products and our company:

European safety certificates for materials

Evodrop meets the strict requirements of the MOCA directive, the European safety directive for food contact materials. This certification confirms that no harmful or environmentally damaging substances are transferred from our products into the water. The quality of our water has also been confirmed by Eurotest Control, one of the leading testing institutes for water treatment systems.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions about PFAS

Conclusion: For your health and the environment

PFAS pose a serious threat to our water and our health. With Evodrop's innovative solutions, you can be sure that your water is free of PFAS and other pollutants. Together with you, we want to create a more sustainable future - for us and for generations to come.