The forever chemicals that end up in our bodies - What in the World podcast, BBC World Service

Forever Chemicals (PFAS): A Deep Dive

Key Concepts:

• PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances): A group of over 15,000 man-made chemicals characterized by strong carbon-fluorine bonds, making them extremely persistent in the environment.
• Forever Chemicals: A common term for PFAS due to their exceptional longevity – potentially lasting hundreds or thousands of years.
• Stockholm Convention: A global agreement to limit the production and use of persistent organic pollutants, including some PFAS.
• Reverse Osmosis Filter: A water filtration method effective in removing PFAS from drinking water.
• Substitutes of Concern: The potential for replacing banned PFAS with alternatives that may pose similar or even greater risks.

1. Introduction & The Problem of Persistence

The episode focuses on “forever chemicals,” scientifically known as PFAS. These substances are a group of over 15,000 man-made chemicals, continually growing in number, distinguished by their incredibly strong carbon-fluorine bonds. This bond structure is the reason for their persistence – they can remain in the environment for hundreds, potentially thousands, of years. The term “forever chemicals” is used interchangeably with PFAS to emphasize this longevity. The discussion acknowledges the overwhelming nature of the information surrounding PFAS and aims to provide clarity on their harm and potential avoidance strategies.

2. Ubiquitous Presence of PFAS

PFAS are incredibly widespread, making complete avoidance nearly impossible. Their useful properties – stability, heat resistance, waterproof and oil-repellent qualities – lead to their incorporation into a vast range of products. Examples include:

• Clothing: Waterproof jackets and other textiles.
• Cookware: Non-stick frying pans.
• Industrial Applications: Gaskets in the aviation industry and various engineering uses.
• Cosmetics: Waterproof mascara, foundations, and concealers, valued for their waterproof properties and ability to create a “flawless finish” by preventing oil interaction with skin. Many major makeup brands are now attempting to reduce or eliminate PFAS from their formulations.
• Firefighting Foam: Used extensively in military grounds, airport sites, and firefighting training centers, leading to groundwater contamination.

3. Pathways of Human Exposure

PFAS enter the human body through three primary routes:

• High Concentration Exposure: Near manufacturing sites where PFAS have been released into the local water system, either accidentally or deliberately (e.g., cases in the US and a criminal case in Italy).
• Prolific Product Use: Frequent use of products containing PFAS, such as firefighting foam, leading to contamination of groundwater.
• Background Contamination: Everyday exposure through products like makeup, where PFAS enter the water system via wastewater after washing. Exposure levels vary significantly depending on geographic location.

4. Health Impacts of PFAS Exposure

Stephanie Metzger from the Royal Society of Chemistry details the potential health consequences of PFAS exposure. While not all PFAS are equally harmful, research indicates that exposure can lead to:

• Thyroid Issues
• Liver and Kidney Problems
• Potential Fertility Issues
• Testicular Cancer
• High Cholesterol
• Lowered Immune Response: Potentially reducing the effectiveness of vaccines.

The severity of health impacts varies depending on the specific PFAS and the level of exposure. The body does naturally eliminate PFAS over time, but often at a slower rate than intake, leading to accumulation. Research is ongoing into potential treatments, including cholesterol-lowering drugs and blood letting (used in Jersey, where high exposure has been documented), as well as exploring the role of gut microbiome and probiotics.

5. Regulatory Responses & Challenges

Governments worldwide are taking steps to address PFAS contamination, focusing on two main strategies:

• Water Quality Regulation: Setting lower limits for PFAS in drinking water (e.g., the US and EU).
• Production Control: Individual countries (like France) are implementing bans on PFAS in specific products, such as textiles, with plans for broader restrictions.

However, challenges remain:

• Substitutes of Concern: Banning one PFAS often leads to its replacement with another, potentially equally harmful chemical.
• Scientific Uncertainty: Ongoing research means policymakers are sometimes hesitant to implement strict regulations until more data is available.
• Inconsistent Approaches: Lack of a unified global strategy, with different countries adopting varying levels of regulation.
• Essential Uses: PFAS are crucial in certain applications, like medical equipment (limiting bacterial growth), requiring careful consideration before complete bans.

6. The Role of Transparency & Corporate Responsibility

Gittemarie Johansen, a Danish sustainability advocate, emphasizes the need for:

• Class-Based Regulation: Addressing the entire category of PFAS rather than focusing on individual chemicals.
• Mandatory Transparency: Requiring manufacturers to disclose the presence of PFAS in their products, empowering consumers to make informed choices.
• Government & Corporate Accountability: Shifting the financial burden of cleanup and health consequences away from individuals and onto corporations and governments.

7. The Inevitability of Exposure & A Call for Informed Action

Esme Stallard concludes that complete avoidance of PFAS is currently impossible due to their widespread presence. However, she cautions against panic, emphasizing the varying levels of harm within the PFAS group. She suggests practical steps individuals can take:

• Water Filtration: Using reverse osmosis filters to remove PFAS from drinking water.
• Cookware Choices: Opting for cast iron, stainless steel, or ceramic cookware instead of non-stick pans with PFAS coatings.
• Cosmetic Awareness: Avoiding highly water-resistant lip products that may contain PFAS.

Notable Quote:

“It is very hard to overstate how much [PFAS] are used, and that's because they have very useful properties.” – Esme Stallard.

Conclusion:

The episode provides a comprehensive overview of PFAS, highlighting their persistence, widespread presence, potential health impacts, and the complex challenges surrounding their regulation. While complete avoidance is currently unrealistic, increased awareness, informed consumer choices, and robust government and corporate action are crucial steps towards mitigating the risks associated with these “forever chemicals.” The ongoing research and evolving understanding of PFAS necessitate a cautious and scientific approach to policy-making and product development.