PFAS are man-made chemicals and are known to be dangerous in the environment due to their ability to bioaccumulate in organisms and their persistent nature, which is why they are better known as ‘forever chemicals’. PFAS pose significant health risks through exposure pathways such as drinking water and food. PFAS exposure pathways are intertwined with the hydrological cycle and could therefore pose health risks in densely populated areas, the dairy industry and protected ecosystems. Nothing is known about the distribution of PFAS in Dutch waters, which is in contrast to its European counterparts. This information is urgently needed to understand the environmental and health impacts of PFAS contamination, as the lack of knowledge hinders accurate risk assessment, delays necessary policy adjustments and risks exacerbating long-term damage to ecosystems and public health. It is the first step in protecting vulnerable communities from avoidable exposure to hazardous substances and ensuring accountability for addressing the risks posed by these persistent pollutants.