Keeping our water clean: the case of water contamination in the Veneto Region, Italy

Overview

Perfluoroalkylated substances (‎PFAS)‎ are highly resistant persistent compounds used for repelling oil, grease and water and protecting the surfaces of carpets and clothing; they are also found in fire-fighting foams. They have negative consequences for human health, although these are not fully established. In 2013, PFAS contamination was found in the drinking-water in parts of the Veneto Region, Italy. This publication describes the experience of the Veneto Region in responding to this public health emergency. The challenges met were typical of those any public health authority might face in responding to a sudden and acute environmental health threat; thus, the lessons learnt in the Veneto Region in dealing with the incident will undoubtedly be useful to other countries facing similar health threats.