Trifluoroacetic acid in groundwater and in the air

24.2.2021

Question for written answer  E-001111/2021
to the Commission
Rule 138
Christel Schaldemose (S&D)

In groundwater drilling carried out by the Danish Environmental Protection Agency, trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) was found in 219 of 247 wells. Experts have established that TFA is harmful in higher concentrations and in combination with other hazardous chemicals. It is found in water and in the air, and is also present in many other EU countries. With this new information in mind:

• 1.Can the Commission provide data on the amount of TFA in groundwater, water and the air in EU and state in detail what can be done to deal with and monitor the accumulation of TFA in water and the air, given that high levels of it are still being used in manufacturing (e.g. to produce refrigerants and aerosol spray cans)?
• 2.Does the Commission think there is enough data to conclude that TFA does not have potential long-term carcinogenic effects or does not harm fertility if it is present in drinking water, for example, and if so can the Commission provide all the data on which that conclusion is based?
• 3.Can the Commission state to what extent the new chemicals strategy it published in October 2020 can be used to regulate the amount of TFA in our manufacturing, air, water and groundwater?