Nationwide Organic Fluoride Pollution

In April 2025, Ministry of the Environment tests showed that Perfluorooctane Sulfonic Acid (PFOS) and Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA) exceeded the national standard in rivers and lakes at 242 locations in 22 prefectures, with a maximum of 520 times the national standard in Settsu City, Osaka Prefecture. The source of the contamination points to fire extinguishing agents at U.S. military bases and industrial discharges, and the government plans to expand the nationwide monitoring network.