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Plastics and Forever Chemicals: How PFAS Damage the Environment and Your Health

Over the last few months, you might have noticed more news stories talking about forever chemicals. But you might not realise the true scale of the threat they pose to our planet – and your health. 


PFAS, also known as ‘forever chemicals’, are a group of over 10,000 man-made chemicals used in many consumer goods. More and more evidence is showing a connection between PFAS and damage to the environment and human health. And PFAS are already everywhere: one recent study found evidence of forever chemical pollution at 17,000 sites in Europe alone. 


What are PFAS?

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are man-made chemicals that are used in a wide range of products. They are found in everyday items such as non-stick cookware, waterproof clothing, and food packaging. The chances that  you have nothing containing PFAS in your home are very low.


PFAS are often called ‘forever chemicals’ because they persist for a long time in the environment and are difficult to break down. Once they are released into the environment, they will linger for years or even decades, contaminating soil, water, and wildlife.


Because PFAS are resistant to natural degradation, they can accumulate in the environment over time. To make things worse, studies have found increasing levels of PFAS present in living organisms, including humans.


What's the link between PFAS and single-use plastics?

Due to their unique properties, PFAS are used at different life cycle stages of plastic products, including production and in products themselves . Their resistance to heat and water makes them useful for making products like non-stick pans, waterproof clothing, and food packaging.


Many single-use plastics contain PFAS to make them more durable and water- and oil- repellent, including shopping bags, food containers, plastic cups, and disposable cutlery. However, when these products are discarded, they end up in landfills or oceans, where the PFAS can  migrate into the environment. Studies have shown that exposure to acidic or alkaline conditions can cause PFAS to leach out of plastic products, contaminating water sources and exposing plants and animals. 


How can PFAS harm the environment and my health?


Some PFAS have been shown to have a detrimental impact on both the environment and human health. These chemicals do not break down easily, and some can take over 1000 years to degrade. PFAS contaminate the food chain, and high levels have been found in the blood of humans and animals around the world. PFAS can be regarded as a threat to wildlife and may be contributing to the decline of some plant and animal species. 


Scientists have linked some well studied PFAS to a variety of health problems, including cancer, liver damage, and immune system dysfunction. They can also affect reproductive health and development, and have been associated with decreased fertility and birth weight in humans.


What can I do about PFAS?

Firstly, there are a few easy steps you can take to reduce your exposure. Avoid using products that contain PFAS whenever possible. For example, you can look for alternatives to non-stick cookware and opt for natural fabrics instead of waterproof clothing. Choose glass or stainless steel containers instead of single-use plastics. If you do use plastic containers, make sure they are PFAS-free. The main uptake of PFAS for the general public is however  through food and water.


Next, you might consider boycotting products and companies that use PFAS. Give your business to companies who don’t use forever chemicals in their products. Check here for a list of retailers committed to phasing out PFAS.


Finally, you can take action. Contact your local representative. Sign a petition to demand greater regulation. Get involved with an environmental organisation near you. Your health and our shared environment need to be protected – so make sure your voice is heard today.


For more information contact: info@scarabtrust.org.uk 


With thanks to EEB (Christine Hermann) for support.

Images: 

Products that contain PFAS - graphic from NY State Dept of Health (ST ref: 1251)

Reported effects of PFAS on humans - Image from Environmental Sciences Europe (ST ref: 1250)


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