A recent study by Kyoto University has revealed the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in sludge samples from 34 wastewater treatment plants across Japan, raising concerns over widespread environmental contamination. According to the study, published on Wednesday, the findings suggest that these harmful chemicals, often referred to as "forever chemicals" due to their persistence in the environment, are likely pervasive in sewage sludge throughout Japan. Since 2023, multiple cases of PFAS contamination exceeding national safety levels have been reported in water sources in Okinawa, Osaka, and Tokyo Metropolis. Notably, many of the affected sites are located near U.S. military bases and Japanese Self-Defense Forces facilities, leading to growing suspicion that these installations may be a source of the pollution. Local civic groups have repeatedly called for access to environmental surveys inside the U.S. bases, but their requests have yet to be approved. PFAS could lead to health problems such as liver damage, thyroid disease, obesity, fertility issues and cancer. SHOTLIST: FILE: Tokyo, Japan - Nov 10, 2022 1. Various of traffic, sign of U.S. Air Force Yokota Air Base; FILE: Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan - July 29, 2022 2. Various of polluted water; FILE: Ginowan City, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan - Feb 28, 2023 3. Various of underground water flowing out from pipe; 4. Various of residents protesting with placards on roadside; 5. Document showing blood test analysis; 6. Sign showing "No! PFAS"; 7. Sign saying "Take PFAS pollutant back to U.S.". [Restrictions: No access Chinese mainland]