Understanding PFAS and Their Impact on Freshwater Ecosystems
Per‑and poly‑fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often called “forever chemicals,” are synthetic compounds that resist degradation. Their persistence leads to accumulation in water bodies, wildlife, and ultimately in the foods that communities rely on. The research led by Trent University’s School of the Environment and the Chanie Wenjack School for Indigenous Studies focuses on how these chemicals infiltrate fish and other freshwater species that are central to Indigenous diets.
Sources of PFAS
PFAS are found in a wide range of consumer products, including non‑stick cookware, stain‑resistant textiles, firefighting foams, and food packaging. Industrial discharges and wastewater treatment plants can release PFAS into nearby rivers and lakes, creating a pathway for the chemicals to reach fish populations.
Health and Environmental Concerns
Because PFAS remain in the environment and in living organisms for extended periods, they can build up in the body over time. Exposure has been linked to developmental delays, immune system suppression, and increased risk of certain cancers. For Indigenous communities that depend on local fish for sustenance and cultural practices, these risks translate into tangible threats to health and food sovereignty.
Trent University’s Collaborative Research Approach
The project is a partnership between Trent researchers, First Nations partners across Canada, and external collaborators such as Dr. Viviane Yargeau at McGill University. By combining scientific expertise with community knowledge, the team aims to produce actionable data that can inform both policy and everyday choices.
Partnership with First Nations Communities
Indigenous partners provide fish samples that are harvested and shared for analysis. Their involvement ensures that the research addresses community priorities and respects traditional ecological knowledge. The collaboration also supports capacity building, allowing community members to participate in sampling, data collection, and interpretation.
Methodology and Findings
Samples of fish from various freshwater sites are analyzed for PFAS concentrations using advanced chromatographic techniques. Early results indicate measurable levels of several PFAS compounds, including PFOA and PFOS, in species that are commonly consumed. The data are being used to develop guidelines for safe consumption and to identify hotspots that require remediation.
Implications for Indigenous Food Security
Guidelines for Safe Consumption
Based on the findings, the research team is working with Indigenous health authorities to draft consumption advisories. These guidelines will help community members make informed decisions about which fish species and portions are safest to eat, balancing nutritional benefits with exposure risks.
How Students Can Engage
Academic Opportunities
Students interested in environmental science, public health, or Indigenous studies can explore graduate and undergraduate programs at Trent University. The School of the Environment offers a Master of Science in Environmental Life Sciences, while the Chanie Wenjack School provides courses in Indigenous Canadian Studies that emphasize environmental stewardship.
Community Involvement
Trent students can volunteer in community‑based monitoring projects, assist with sample collection, or contribute to data analysis. These experiences provide hands‑on learning and strengthen ties between academia and local communities.
Next Steps and Resources
To learn more about the research, watch the short film Fish Forever, which documents the collaborative effort and highlights the importance of PFAS monitoring.
For students and community members interested in pursuing studies related to this work, explore the Environmental Life Sciences MSc program or the Indigenous Canadian Studies courses.
Contact the research team to discuss potential collaborations or to request access to the latest data sets. Together, we can advance knowledge and protect both environmental and human health.
Share your thoughts in the comments below or reach out to the Trent University School of the Environment for more information.
