Previously, rainwater could be used for various purposes, including cooking and boiling drinking water. However, scientists now advise against using rainwater, as it is contaminated with numerous carcinogenic substances worldwide.
A recent study has confirmed that rainwater around the globe contains high levels of “forever chemicals” that are carcinogenic, warranting the warning that it is “unsafe to drink.”
Specifically, these are PFAS chemicals – man-made substances that have spread throughout the atmosphere, resulting in their presence in rainwater and snow across even the most remote areas of the planet. Researchers assert that these chemicals are extremely persistent in the atmosphere and highly toxic.
Rainwater is severely polluted worldwide. (Photo: The Hans).
Professor Ian Cousins from Stockholm University (Sweden), the lead researcher, stated: “Based on US guidelines for these substances in drinking water, rainwater everywhere is unsafe. Although we do not always drink rainwater, many people around the world still use rainwater, well water, or water from ponds (which includes rainwater) for cooking.”
The research team has monitored PFAS levels in the atmosphere for over a decade and found that there has been no decline, even though some major manufacturers have long ceased their use. This indicates the persistence of these chemicals, and “we can do almost nothing to reduce PFAS pollution.” This is why they are nicknamed “forever chemicals.”
In many places, people still collect rainwater for household use, even for cooking. (Illustrative photo: iStock).
PFAS are linked to numerous serious health issues, including cancer, cognitive and behavioral problems in children, difficulties in pregnancy and childbirth, elevated cholesterol levels, and immune system issues.
For now, due to the absence of specific solutions, scientists can only advise everyone, everywhere, not to use rainwater, especially for drinking purposes.
