Forever chemicals – perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) – have been commonly used industry and consumer products since the 1940s. The nickname “forever chemicals” is not just for show. Forever chemicals such as perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) resist natural decomposition, accumulating in the environment and human body. Studies show that Forever Chemicals are detrimental to human health. Growing evidence demonstrates their dangers and their inherent ability to persist in our environment. Now is the time to act.
Why It Matters
Health Problems: Studies demonstrate that PFAS often cause immune system damage, thyroid inflammation, liver disease, lipid and insulin dysregulation, kidney disease, and cancer. Even at low levels, these chemicals do not break down. Instead, they accumulate over time. They interfere with hormone regulation and reduce the body’s ability to fight infections and inflammation.
Extreme Persistence: The carbon-fluorine bond is one of the strongest bonds in chemistry. This bond within PFAS prevents PFAS from breaking down naturally. PFAS are resistant to heat, water, and microbial activity. PFAS also dissolve easily in water, making contamination widespread and difficult to contain.
Financial Risk: Growing awareness and regulation bring significant challenges to businesses. Companies that manufacture PFAS-containing products will begin to face legal and reputational consequences. Additionally, the U.S. EPA has recently lowered the allowable limits for PFAS in public water.
Details
Over 10,000 anthropogenic chemicals are classified as PFAS. They are used in a wide range of consumer products because of their nonstick and water-resistant properties. Examples include waterproof clothing, nonstick cookware, and food packaging.
A study in 2024 found that 97% of Americans tested positive for PFAS compounds in body fluids. As mentioned above, this poses serious health issues. Although most Americans already have PFAS in their bodies, that does not mean Americans should continue to accept exposure.
It means Americans require urgent regulatory action to protect their health. These chemicals may be persistent but phasing them out can limit future exposure and protect public health. Policymakers, businesses, and individuals can help with this process.
Act Now: Policymakers
Stronger regulations: Policymakers ought to implement stronger regulations on corporations and businesses in PFAS production and usage. The temporary benefits of profits do not outweigh the serious damage these chemicals pose.
Funding for cleanup: Policymakers should also increase funding for PFAS cleanup, especially in drinking water supplies. Although they are tough to remove from the environment, with enough funding, this goal can be achieved.
Act Now: Businesses
Switch materials: Corporations should phase out products that utilize PFAS and transition to safer alternatives. Silicone-based coatings, wax-based treatments, and polyurethane coatings can be used as alternatives.
Disclosure in usage: If corporations must continue to use supplies that contain PFAS, they should disclose their usage and be transparent about it. This can help not only cleanup efforts but also help sensitive individuals avoid PFAS.
Act Now: Communities
Avoid PFAS: Individuals should avoid products that are known to contain toxic PFAS chemicals. This includes things like nonstick cookware and stain-resistant fabrics.
Community advocacy: Individuals also ought to advocate for stronger environmental policies in their community, city, and state. With strong enough advocacy, the word can get out and change can be achieved.
PFAS spread should not be ignored any longer. With their presence already infecting many communities and their health risks publicized, policymakers, businesses, and individuals must work together to protect not only ourselves but also future generations from exposure. The time to act is now. Hesitation brings serious consequences.
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