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PFAS: Persistent Pollutants with Long-Term Impacts

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are synthetic chemicals used since the 1950s in industrial processes and consumer goods. Their carbon-fluorine bonds are among the strongest in organic chemistry, making PFAS extremely resistant to degradation.

Nicknamed “forever chemicals,” PFAS accumulate in water, soil, and living organisms. Some compounds, such as PFOA and PFOS, are now classified as carcinogenic or potentially carcinogenic by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).

European Regulations: New Thresholds and Compliance Requirements

The EU Drinking Water Directive 2020/2184, transposed into French law in December 2022, introduces strict requirements starting January 2026:

  • Maximum concentration of 0.10 µg/L for the sum of 20 regulated PFAS in drinking water.
  • Mandatory testing for PFAS and other emerging micropollutants (e.g., bisphenol A, chlorates, uranium).
  • Enhanced sanitary safety plans (PGSSE), transparency, and material standards.

Municipalities must act now to avoid non-compliance, service disruptions, and costly emergency measures.

Municipal Challenges: Anticipate, Test, and Justify Investments

A PFAS pilot project is a strategic tool for municipalities to:

  • Reduce technical uncertainty by testing real-world performance of treatment technologies.
  • Adapt solutions to local conditions: raw water quality, infrastructure, and regulatory targets.
  • Access public funding (Water Agencies, ADEME, EU) with up to 70% coverage for innovative or strategic trials.
  • Build trust with elected officials, regulators, and citizens through transparent, data-driven decisions.

How does it work ?

Through PFAS Resolve, Saur offers a turnkey PFAS pilot solution for municipalities and industrial clients, combining technical expertise, mobile infrastructure, and regulatory insight.

Project Phases

Phase Estimated Duration Key Activities
Preparation 1–3 months Site visit, goal setting, technology selection
Installation 6–12 months Mobile unit setup, weekly testing, performance monitoring
Evaluation 1 month Data analysis, performance comparison, technology validation
Recommendations 1 month Final report, industrial implementation scenarios, CAPEX/OPEX estimates

Have a project in mind? Contact our experts today to define your pilot and secure your water future.

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