Research Shows Harakeke Can Remove 'Forever Chemicals' From Water
A Waipapa Taumata Rau study reveals that chemically treated harakeke fibres can effectively remove per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), known as 'forever chemicals', from contaminated water. These persistent contaminants are linked to cancer and fertility issues. Inspired by mātauranga Māori, the research highlights harakeke's potential as a sustainable and cost-effective solution for environmental remediation, successfully tackling even the most difficult-to-remove short-chain PFAS. This discovery offers hope for addressing a major global environmental challenge.
A groundbreaking study from Waipapa Taumata Rau has demonstrated that harakeke (flax) possesses remarkable healing properties, successfully removing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as 'forever chemicals,' from contaminated water in lab tests. PFAS are notorious for their persistence in the environment and their links to severe health issues like cancer and fertility problems, accumulating in humans and animals globally.The research, inspired by traditional mātauranga Māori and community discussions, found that chemically treated harakeke fibres effectively eliminated five types of PFAS, including the challenging 'short chain' variants. Kairaranga Ahi Nyx highlights the traditional understanding that harakeke can cleanse water, a belief now supported by scientific inquiry. Professor David Barker initiated the research after witnessing community reverence for harakeke, discovering its potential to tackle these pervasive contaminants.Historically, harakeke has been a taonga species with diverse uses, from textiles and tools to medicine. This new application suggests it could offer a sustainable and cost-effective solution to one of the world’s most significant environmental challenges. Dr. Lokesh Padhye emphasizes the material's availability and sustainability, making it a particularly promising avenue for developing effective PFAS treatment approaches. This convergence of indigenous knowledge and modern science offers a powerful tool for environmental remediation.
