Japanese researchers discover bacteria that breaks down 'forever chemicals'

Researchers have identified bacteria found in river ecosystems that possess the ability to decompose per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as 'forever chemicals' due to their resistance to natural degradation. The bacteria's capacity to break down these compounds represents a significant development in addressing environmental contamination from synthetic chemicals that accumulate in soil, water, and organisms over time.

PFAS are widely deployed across numerous industrial and consumer applications. The chemicals are integral to manufacturing processes for non-stick coatings on cookware and textiles, water-resistant fabrics, and aqueous film-forming foams used in firefighting and training exercises at airports and military facilities. Their widespread use has resulted in contamination of water supplies and ecosystems globally.

The bacterial discovery emerged from investigations into natural river environments, where researchers identified microorganisms capable of metabolizing these otherwise persistent compounds. The findings suggest that biological processes may offer an alternative or complementary approach to current remediation methods for PFAS-contaminated sites.

Scientists indicated that further research will be necessary to understand the mechanisms of bacterial degradation and to assess the potential for scaling such biological solutions for industrial applications. The discovery adds to growing international efforts to develop effective strategies for managing PFAS pollution, which has become an increasing concern for environmental and public health authorities across Asia-Pacific and beyond.