Learn more about PFAS

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a large group of man-made chemicals comprising over 10,000 different substances. They are known for their strong carbon-fluorine bonds, which make them very stable and difficult to break down. Therefore, they are often referred to as “forever chemicals.”

PFOS (perfluorooctanesulfonic acid) is a specific type of PFAS. It is one of the most well-known and widely used PFAS substances. PFOS was previously used in many products such as firefighting foam, water-repellent coatings, and cleaning agents.

How dangerous are PFAS substances?

PFAS is problematic because even low levels of exposure can have long-term consequences for the environment and human health. PFAS has been linked to cancer development, reduced fertility and low birth weight, weakened immune response, liver damage, and increased cholesterol levels. The substances can accumulate in humans and animals due to their high mobility in the environment and resistance to degradation. In 2022, threshold values were significantly lowered as PFAS substances were found to be far more harmful than previously assumed.