Chemicals that were introduced to protect the Earth’s ozone layer are now causing a new and unexpected environmental problem, according to a recent scientific study. Researchers say these chemicals are spreading large amounts of a long-lasting pollutant, often described as a “forever chemical,” across the entire planet. Scientists did not predict this issue when they first approved these substances for use, and now they warn that the effects could persist for generations.
The study was led by atmospheric scientists from Lancaster University. For the first time, the research team calculated how much of a chemical called trifluoroacetic acid, or TFA, has been deposited from the atmosphere onto the Earth’s surface. Their results show that around 335,500 tonnes of TFA fell across the globe between the years 2000 and 2022. TFA is often called a “forever chemical” because it does not break down easily in nature. Once it enters rivers, lakes, soil, or groundwater, it can remain there for a very long time. The researchers found that most of this TFA comes from chemicals that replaced older ozone-destroying substances known as CFCs.
These replacement chemicals are commonly used in refrigerators, air conditioners, and certain medical anesthetics. Even though many of these chemicals are now being phased out, the problem is far from over. Some of these gases can stay in the atmosphere for decades before breaking down. Because of this long lifetime, scientists believe that the amount of TFA entering the environment will continue to grow.
The study estimates that the highest yearly production of TFA from these sources could happen at any time between 2025 and 2100. The results were published in the journal Geophysical Research letters. To do the study, scientists used advanced computer models. These models show how chemicals react with other gases. The models track how pollution later falls back to the Earth. Real weather patterns were included to make the results more accurate. The research looked at chemicals called HCFCs and HFCs. These are widely used in air conditioners and cooling systems. The study also examined anesthetic gases used in hospitals. All of these chemicals belong to a group known as F-gases.
Although international agreements such as the Montreal Protocol and the Kigali Amendment aim to reduce their use, the total amount of these gases in the atmosphere is still increasing. TFA belongs to a larger group of man-made chemicals known as PFAS. These chemicals are often called “forever chemicals” because they are extremely stable and resist natural breakdown.
Scientists are still learning about the full effects of TFA on people and the environment. The European Chemicals Agency says TFA is harmful to aquatic life, meaning it can damage plants and animals living in water. TFA has also been found in human blood and urine. In Germany, the German Federal Office for Chemicals has suggested that TFA could be harmful to human reproduction.
Some government agencies say current TFA levels are unlikely to harm humans right now. But many scientists worry about its slow, permanent buildup. TFA breaks down very slowly, so small yearly increases could become a big problem. Some experts say it should be treated as a serious global environmental threat. Researchers tested their models by comparing them with real-world data.
Rainwater and Arctic ice samples show that most TFA in remote places comes from the breakdown of chemicals that replaced CFCs. This proves that TFA pollution can travel very long distances from where it is first released. The study also says that newer refrigerants used in car air-conditioning systems are becoming a major source of TFA. This phenomenon is especially true in mid-latitude regions.
These refrigerants are sold as climate-friendly, but scientists warn they can still cause long-term environmental pollution. The researchers say TFA pollution is now widespread, very persistent, and continuing to increase. They stress the urgent need for better global monitoring, stronger international cooperation, and more research to identify all sources of TFA and reduce its long-term harm to the environment.
