04/12/2026
Not sure how o got on this today.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of over 14,000 synthetic, "forever chemicals" known for their extreme durability and water/grease resistance. Invented in the 1940s, they do not break down in the environment and accumulate in human blood, food, and water. Key sources include nonstick cookware (Teflon), stain-resistant fabrics, food packaging, and firefighting foam.
Yale Sustainability
Yale Sustainability
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What are PFAS?
PFAS, known as "forever chemicals," are synthetic compounds created by linking carbon and fluorine atoms—a bond that is nearly indestructible, allowing them to persist in the environment and human body.
Yale Sustainability
Yale Sustainability
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Persistent: They do not break down in the environment.
Ubiquitous: They are found in the blood of people and animals worldwide.
Health Hazards: Exposure is linked to cancer, liver damage, and other serious health issues.
Key Types: PFOA and PFOS are the most heavily studied, though thousands of other types exist.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (.gov)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (.gov)
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Where Do They Come From?
PFAS are used in countless consumer and industrial products designed to be water-, grease-, or stain-resistant.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (.gov)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (.gov)
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Household Products: Nonstick cookware (e.g., Teflon), stain-resistant carpets, water-resistant fabrics (e.g., Gore-Tex), upholstery cleaners, and paints.
Food Packaging: Grease-resistant paper, fast-food wrappers, microwave popcorn bags, and pizza boxes.
Firefighting Foam: Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) used at military bases, airports, and training sites is a major source of water contamination.
Personal Care Products: Certain cosmetics, including waterproof mascara, lipsticks, and dental floss.
Industrial Processes: Manufacturing facilities for electronics, chrome plating, and oil recovery.
NRDC
NRDC
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How Do They Enter the Environment?
PFAS are released through manufacturing emissions, landfill leaching from discarded products, and the use of firefighting foams. They contaminate soil, air, and, most commonly, drinking water sources.
