From non-stick frying pans to water-resistant outdoor gear, PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) have become an invisible staple of modern manufacturing. These synthetic compounds are prized for their ability to repel oil and water, but their greatest industrial strength is also a significant environmental threat. Because they do not break down naturally, they have earned the notorious nickname ‘forever chemicals’.
The scale of the issue is truly international. PFAS are highly mobile, travelling through water systems and atmosphere to reach even the most remote corners of the globe. The European Environment Agency has highlighted that these substances accumulate in the human body and the environment, leading to long-term exposure risks that transcend national borders.
Research into the health impacts of PFAS is ongoing worldwide. High levels of exposure have been linked to liver damage, thyroid disease, and developmental issues. Consequently, international bodies like the OECD are working to coordinate the risk assessment and management of these chemicals on a global scale.
As the world moves towards a more sustainable future, the transition to PFAS-free alternatives is becoming a priority for manufacturers and consumers alike. By choosing products with transparent chemical credentials, we can all contribute to reducing the global burden of these persistent pollutants.