Scientists sound alarm over dangerous substance in precipitation

Scientists, as Nature writes, have recorded an increase in the concentration of trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) in precipitation.

When it rains or snows, it also brings with it an anthropogenic substance called trifluoroacetic acid (TFA). The article says that this acid is found in lakes and rivers, bottled water, grain crops, animal liver, etc. It is also found in human blood and urine all over the world.

TFA is said to enter the environment through industrial production, refrigerant leaks, or the breakdown of certain pesticides. The substance does not break down naturally, but accumulates in soil, water, and living organisms.

With this in mind, scientists continue to debate the extent of the acid's danger. Meanwhile, new studies point to its potential impact on the environment as well as reproductive health.

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