Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are manmade “forever” chemicals that are harmful to the environment and human health
Known for their resistance to heat, oil, stains, and water, PFAS have been used in manufacturing and industry since the 1940s and are abundant in today’s society. They are found in many common household products such as nonstick cookware, furniture, clothing, carpets, cosmetics, and food packaging.
Due to the widespread use of PFAS, scientists have found these troublesome pollutants all over the globe, in air, soil, water, animals, and people. With their strong chemical bonds, PFAS can build up in the environment and our bodies over time. Studies have shown that exposure to PFAS may lead to increased cancer risk, developmental delays in children, and interference with the body’s natural hormones and immune response. Although the U.S. has banned some types of PFAS, there are still more than 5,000 types in use.
Unfortunately, once PFAS enter the environment, there’s no easy way to eliminate them. While there is much we don’t know about managing PFAS pollution, one thing is sure: The best solution is prevention at the source, by keeping PFAS out of products and the environment to begin with.