From clothing to non-stick cookware, PFAs have been present right under our noses. PFAs, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are man-made chemicals that have recently shown negative impacts on health. While not all PFAs are harmful to our health, many are still being create that could cause potential harm. PFAs are essentially unavoidable, yet there are things you can do to prevent your exposure and learn about future regulation actions.
Health Risk of PFAs
The nickname” forever chemicals” comes from the long lifespan of PFAs, as they can remain in humans and animals for years. Since the 1950s, PFAs have been used to keep food from sticking or water and dirt resistant clothing. For over 70 years, we have been exposed to these chemicals. Erik D. Olson, the NRDC’s senior director of health and food, says that PFAs do not break down easily and spread quickly through the environment. This causes health risks such as cancer or hormone imbalances.
Undoubtedly, PFAs are found in most humans and animals. A report conducted by the CDC found that 97% of Ameircans have PFAs in their blood. The alarming truth is that there is no regulation of PFAs. Because manufacturers do not have to disclose their PFA use, it is hard to calculate the direct impact on the environment and drinking water. It is estimated that at least 45% of tap water in the United States has one or more PFAs according to USGS.
Why is there no regulation?
The EPA is currently working on regulating PFAs, yet there is still no action on banning the use of them. Lack of PFA research causes PFAs to still be used in every production. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law allocated $10 billion to address PFAs and other contaminants in drinking water. While PFAs have spread through the environment, they can be the most harmful when ingested.
Unfortunately, these forever chemicals are here to stay. Unless regulation and prevention can be created, we will face the harmful effects of PFAs and other contaminants in our food and water. Being aware of what chemicals we create will let us hold each other accountable. In the end, knowing what PFAs are can help companies make products for our health and the environment.
A Future With Less PFAs
California and New York are leading states in taking action against PFAs. Both states have started banning PFAs in food packaging and plan to remove PFAs from apparel by 2025. Maine is also close behind in banning almost all PFAs by 2030. Companies like Levis Strauss & Co and Victoria’s Secret are also taking large steps to eliminate PFAs in their apparel. It is great that these steps are being taken, but the faster the PFAs are removed from production, the less harmful they will be to the environment and our health.