16 rural villages in France lose access to drinking water due to record PFAS contamination

Nearly 3,500 residents in 16 rural villages in eastern France have lost access to drinking water due to record PFAS contamination. These toxic substances, known as "forever chemicals," were detected at unprecedented levels, leading to bans on tap water consumption since July 10.

Residents have turned to bottled water, with sales surging. Store manager Gauthier Denis reported a 120% increase in sales. Sandrine Bouvet, a local resident, expressed concern over the situation, saying, “We were told we can't drink tap water anymore because of 'pfffasses'." The contamination has profoundly impacted daily life in the affected villages.