Learn more about forever chemicals: what they are, how they impact the environment, and the different regulatory efforts designed to control them.
Forever chemicals, also called polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), are a group of man-made chemicals highly resistant to environmental and human degradation. They are commonly used in products like non-stick cookware, water-resistant fabrics, and firefighting foams due to their durability and heat resistance. However, their persistence poses significant environmental and health concerns, as they can accumulate over time and are linked to adverse health effects.
Forever chemicals are prevalent in various common products like cookware and fabric. These chemicals pose significant threats to the environment and can also impact a person’s health. This is why companies are taking major steps to ensure that they limit or eliminate the PFAS they use in their products. Here’s a closer look at the impact PFAS has:
Forever chemicals have a significant environmental impact due to their persistence, bioaccumulation, and mobility in ecosystems. These chemicals resist degradation in soil, water, and air, meaning they remain in the environment for decades or longer.
PFAS contamination of water sources is particularly concerning, as these chemicals leach into groundwater and surface water from industrial sites, firefighting foam use, and landfills. This contamination disrupts aquatic ecosystems, with PFAS accumulating in fish and other organisms, creating a cascading effect up the food chain. High levels of PFAS have also been found in agricultural products, like crops and livestock, due to irrigation with contaminated water or use of contaminated biosolids as fertilizer.
Exposure to PFAS has been linked to various health issues, including reduced fertility, developmental problems in children, and an increased risk of certain cancers. Studies have found that at least 97 % of Americans tested had PFAS compounds in their body fluids, indicating widespread exposure. The full extent of health effects is still being researched, but the evidence suggests significant potential risks associated with these chemicals.
Forever chemicals are present in different products that people often have in their homes. This is why the prevalence of PFAS in the environment has been on the rise since the 2000s. Some common items that may contain PFAS are the following:
Non-stick cookware – Products like coated pans and other non-stick surfaces.
Water-resistant clothing – Jackets, outdoor gear, and textiles treated to repel water and stains.
Food packaging – Grease-resistant wrappers, microwave popcorn bags, and fast-food containers.
Firefighting foam – Aqueous film-forming foams (AFFFs) used for extinguishing flammable liquid fires.
Carpets and upholstery – Stain-resistant treatments applied to rugs, carpets, and furniture.
Cosmetics – Foundations, mascaras, and other beauty products, especially those labeled as waterproof or long-lasting.
Cleaning products – Household and industrial cleaning agents that resist grease and oil.
Electronics – Wire insulation, circuit boards, and other electronic components.
Paints and sealants – Protective coatings and products designed for durability and resistance.
Dental floss – Especially floss brands marketed as “slip” or “glide” for easy use.
Since PFAS pose a major threat to the environment and to public health, governments worldwide have taken steps to limit the amount of these chemicals being used in products. On top of that, governments have been implementing programs to speed up the cleaning and removal of these chemicals from the environment. Here are some of the regulatory efforts against PFAS worldwide:
The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has implemented several measures to address PFAS contamination. In April 2024, the EPA finalized a rule designating PFOA and PFOS as hazardous substances under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA), enhancing transparency and accountability for PFAS cleanup efforts. Additionally, the EPA issued the first national, legally enforceable drinking water standard for PFAS, aiming to reduce exposure for approximately 100 million people.
PFAS are regulated under the Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) Regulation within the European Union. The regulation aims to eliminate or restrict the production and use of persistent organic pollutants. This regulation enforces stringent controls on the manufacturing, marketing, and use of PFAS, aligning with international agreements to protect human health and the environment from these hazardous substances.
While the UK has no statutory standards for PFAS in drinking water, the Drinking Water Inspectorate (DWI) has adopted a precautionary approach by issuing tiered guideline values for water companies to follow. Additionally, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has initiated calls for evidence on PFAS usage, particularly in firefighting foams, indicating a move towards potential regulatory actions. Recent legislative proposals have also been introduced to set legal limits on PFAS, reflecting growing concern and efforts to strengthen regulations.
To ensure compliance with regulations regarding forever chemicals, businesses can adopt a comprehensive approach that includes understanding the regulatory landscape, implementing proactive measures, and maintaining transparency. Here are some key strategies:
Understand and be regularly updated on regulatory requirements to be aware of any changes.
Conduct thorough risk assessments on every aspect of the business, with a digital solution for easy assessments from product design to sales to identify possible health risks to both workers and customers.
Adjust processes and modify products used in manufacturing when necessary.
Implement compliance programs and train employees on best safety practices.
Establish a monitoring and reporting system that can easily be understood by all and integrated with existing digital systems, so all safety risks can be immediately identified and addressed.
By adopting these strategies, businesses can better manage the risks associated with PFAS regulations while ensuring compliance and protecting their operational integrity.
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