A UN expert has expressed concerns about PFAS contamination at US bases in southwestern Japan’s Okinawa Prefecture and elsewhere. He said it poses a threat to human health.
Marcos Orellana, the UN Special Rapporteur on toxics and human rights, delivered a report at a UN human rights committee meeting on Thursday.
He said that widespread PFAS contamination “is a persistent issue at military bases and munition factories threatening the health and well-being of both military personnel and civilians.” PFAS are a class of organic fluorine compounds, and some of them are considered to be harmful.
Orellana cited the use of firefighting foams that contain PFAS chemicals during training sessions and emergencies as a major contributor to the problem of contamination.
Orellana visited Okinawa last year. He said, “Severe PFAS contamination connected to military bases has been reported in the United States and Australia, and also in Okinawa.” He also mentioned PFAS contamination of tap water.
He called for more action to prevent, reduce and address the toxic remnants of military activities.
A Japanese representative at the committee said US forces in Japan give due regard to public safety when they conduct their operations. The official also said the Japanese government takes seriously the concerns that local residents have about PFAS chemicals.
The official added that the government remains committed to ensuring that effective environmental measures are taken.
AloJapan.com