A number of organic fluorine compounds (PFAS), which are known to have health effects, have been detected around a synthetic rubber manufacturing plant in Kitaibaraki City, Ibaraki Prefecture, casting a dark shadow over the region. The concentration of the substance contained in well water was up to 460 times the national provisional target value. While residents requested that an information session be held, the company took a cautious stance, saying, ``The cause has not been identified.'' The city, which continues its investigation, is trying to mediate and find a solution...