Understanding Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) may sound like a technical term, but these chemicals are closer to everyday life than many people realize. For decades, PFAS have been used to make products resist water, grease, heat, and stains, which is why they have shown up in things like nonstick cookware, water-resistant clothing, food packaging, stain-resistant carpets, and some firefighting foams.

The concern is that many PFAS do not simply disappear after they are used. Often called “forever chemicals,” they can linger in soil, water, wildlife, and people for years. Because they have been so widely used, PFAS can turn up in unexpected places, including drinking water, food, household dust, and areas near certain factories, landfills, airports, or firefighting training sites.

That is why PFAS have become such an important environmental and public health issue. Some PFAS have been linked to health concerns, and once contamination is found, it can be difficult and costly to address. Understanding PFAS matters because it affects the water we drink, the communities we live in, and the decisions being made about testing, cleanup, and how to reduce exposure in the future. PFAS are increasingly being found throughout both urban and rural areas, making it critically important to establish background levels on sites.

For those wanting to learn more, ASTI can help educate, provide vital resources, and assist with PFAS requirements. View the article for an overview of PFAS basics here: https://bit.ly/4cnPOMY