Forever chemicals: what are we actually exposed to in the UK?: A talk by Dr David Megson, Environmental Forensics Expert

Overview
Environmental pollution is making headlines, but are we focusing on the right risks? Dr David Megson reveals the hidden story of chemical pollution in the UK, exploring the invisible toxic substances that have become part of our daily lives.

Why This Matters
While plastic waste and sewage pollution capture public attention through visible evidence, Dr Megson suggests that less visible chemical pollutants may pose greater risks to our health and environment. This talk explores the science behind these “forever chemicals” and their impact on our lives.

Key Terms Explained
‘Forever Chemicals’ are defined as substances that persist in the environment and human body for extended periods. These toxic chemicals are carcinogenic (meaning they can cause cancer), mutagenic (meaning they can cause genetic mutations), and teratogenic (meaning they can harm fetal development).

Topics Covered
In this comprehensive presentation, Dr Megson will explore the contrast between visible pollution and hidden chemical threats in our environment. He will discuss common sources of toxic chemicals found in everyday products and explain why certain harmful substances remain in use despite known risks. The talk will examine the complex balance between chemical benefits and risks, including historical “miracle chemicals” and their lasting legacy. Current research on chemical exposure in the UK will be presented, along with information about steps being taken to manage chemical risks.

What You’ll Learn
Understanding chemical pollution goes beyond visible environmental damage. You’ll discover how these substances enter our lives through everyday products, from food packaging to furniture, and learn about current scientific efforts to understand and manage these risks.

About the Speaker

David Megson is currently a Reader at Manchester Metropolitan University teaching chemistry and environmental forensics. He has a keen interest in monitoring environmental pollution of persistent organic pollutants and developing new techniques for their measurement. He is also employed by Chemistry Matters as a senior Environmental Chemist working on environmental forensics litigation cases to identify the source(s) of persistent organic pollutants in the environment.

David is a committee member for the British Standards Institute (BSI & ISO) where he develops and produces analytical standards to measure pollutants in water. He has received over £4 Million in research funding since 2016.

A regular keynote speaker, David organises international conferences in positions on the committee of the RSC Environment, Sustainability & Energy Council, the British Mass Spectrometry Society and as Chair of the International Network of Environmental Forensics.

David has published widely and has contributed to over 30 media pieces in national and international newspapers. He has also appeared on the award-wining BBC podcast series Buried.