“Federal Councilor Albert Rösti is now responsible”: Farmer-President Ritter on chemicals in soil and water
A study finds trifluoroacetic acid in groundwater across Switzerland,especially in agricultural areas. this is a chemical that is tough to degrade (PFAS). Are the farmers victims or perpetrators? Farmers President Markus ritter takes a stand.
In Eggersriet in the St.Gallen canon, several farms are affected by PFAS: They are no longer allowed to sell meat.
Trifluoroacetic acid, a difficult-to-degrade chemical of one of the PFAS, can be found almost everywhere in groundwater. Agricultural areas are particularly affected. it
We first need a clear basis to be able to make objective decisions. Were do these substances come from? From industry, from hospitals or did they enter our soil through the spreading of sewage sludge in previous years? We still know vrey little.Research and science are needed now, as are federal agencies.
There is evidence that PFAS chemicals are harmful to health. Aren’t you just playing for time?
No, not at all. At the moment, no one knows how hazardous these substances are to health, such as how much water a person needs to drink per day before it becomes harmful. I don’t think it’s a serious approach to take action now, so to speak, flying blind.
Farmers are not only partly responsible for soil and water contamination, but are also potential victims of the chemicals. In the canton of St.Gallen, five farms are no longer allowed to sell meat because PFAS was found in them. How big is the fear in farming circles?
The uncertainty that has arisen due to the communication of the
Canton of St.Gallen is enormous. The cantonal parliament has now provided 5 million to compensate affected farming families. That’s a lot of money to solve a problem that is barely understood. I notice that the other cantons are keeping quiet. The cantonal government of St.Gallen proceeded unwisely; Federal Councilor Albert Rösti’s Federal Office for the Surroundings is now responsible for providing the necessary foundations for all of Switzerland.
However: How many farms could be affected by closure or have to change their production?
You don’t know that. The five farms in Eggersriet are located in the grassland area, where there was hardly any arable or vegetable cultivation and little mineral fertilizer was used. If there seems to be too much PFAS, what is the situation in other regions of Switzerland? But as I said: We don’t know, we don’t have the basics.
A possible source in Eggersriet is suspected to be sewage sludge from areas with many industries. Sewage sludge has been spread almost everywhere in switzerland for years. What do you say to your worried farmers?
It makes no sense to get involved in activism now and take ill-advised measures. We need scientific foundations to define internationally agreed limit values in groundwater, soil and food.
What steps are being taken in Switzerland to address PFAS contamination in agricultural practices?
interview: Understanding PFAS Contamination in Swiss Agriculture
Time.news Editor (TNE): Welcome, Dr. Markus Ritter, president of the Farmers Association, and a key figure in the conversation about agricultural practices and their impact on our surroundings. Recent studies have revealed that trifluoroacetic acid, a challenging PFAS chemical, is present in groundwater across Switzerland, especially in agricultural zones. Can you elaborate on the findings and their implications for farmers?
Dr. Markus Ritter (MR): Thank you for having me. The resurgence of PFAS, particularly trifluoroacetic acid, in our groundwater is indeed alarming. these substances are known for being particularly persistent in the environment. Our examination shows that this contamination is concentrated in agricultural areas, raising serious concerns about the health of ecosystems and the safety of our food supply.
TNE: It’s a complex issue. Would you say that farmers are victims in this situation, or are they complicit in the contamination?
MR: This is a nuanced situation. Farmers are frequently enough seen as the perpetrators when it comes to agricultural pollution, but the reality is that the sources of these chemicals can be widespread.The use of sewage sludge, industrial runoff, and even pharmaceuticals can contribute to this issue.We first need to trace the origins of these substances to understand what part farmers play.
TNE: so, you’re advocating for a more complete investigation into PFAS sources. What are some of the other contributing factors you see?
MR: Exactly. We need a precise analysis of the pathways through which these chemicals enter our soil and water. Such as, sewage sludge from wastewater treatment plants can introduce PFAS into agricultural lands. Additionally, industrial processes and even hospital waste must be considered. We need to ensure that farmers are not unfairly blamed for a problem that has multiple sources.
TNE: You mentioned the health impacts. what specific challenges do farmers face due to these findings?
MR: Farmers are facing severe economic repercussions. In regions like Eggersriet in St. Gallen, farms contaminated with PFAS are no longer allowed to sell their meat.This results not only in financial strain for these farmers but also in a loss of consumer trust in agricultural products. Therefore, it’s critical that we address both the environmental concerns and the livelihoods of those affected.
TNE: That leads into the question of accountability and regulation. How do you envision the role of policymakers in addressing PFAS contamination?
MR: Policymakers have a vital role in establishing clear regulations and guidelines for the use of chemicals in agriculture.It’s imperative that they provide support for farmers transitioning away from harmful practices.Moreover, investing in research to develop better waste management solutions and agricultural techniques will be essential.
TNE: Looking ahead, what measures can farmers and the agricultural community take to mitigate this issue?
MR: Farmers can adopt practices such as integrated land management, regular soil testing, and minimizing the use of contaminated inputs. Collaborating with environmental scientists to identify choice strategies is also key. However, for these efforts to be effective, we need partnerships between farmers, researchers, and regulators.
TNE: Dr. Ritter, this is an issue that extends beyond any one sector. It calls for a united approach. Lastly, how can consumers contribute to addressing the PFAS crisis?
MR: consumers have a powerful voice. They can advocate for transparency in food production and support local farms that adhere to enduring practices. By being informed and demanding safer products, consumers can push for systemic changes. It’s a collective effort that asks everyone to be part of the solution.
TNE: Thank you, Dr. Ritter. It’s clear that addressing PFAS contamination is multifaceted, and your insights lend a much-needed perspective on the role of farmers in this ongoing issue. let’s hope for further collaboration among all stakeholders for a safer and healthier future for agriculture.
MR: Thank you for having me. Together,we can work towards solutions that benefit the environment and our agricultural community.