Learn about PFAS, aka “Forever Chemicals”

PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, is a class of about 12,000 chemicals used across dozens of industries to make products that resist water, stains, and heat, or that make products stronger. PFAS are found in: 

  • Textiles like carpets, upholstery and other fabrics that are water resistant or stain resistant;  Grease resistant fast food wrappers, microwave popcorn bags, pizza boxes, candy wrappers, and some single-use plastic wraps;

  • Household products like cleaning products, shampoo, cosmetics, and even some toilet paper; and 

  • Non-stick cookware like Teflon.

They have been called “forever chemicals” because they don’t naturally break down. They are linked to cancer, thyroid disease, kidney problems, decreased immunity, birth defects, and other serious health problems. Unfortunately, PFAS are so environmentally persistent they are now found in our rain and snow. Most of us have PFAS in our blood – including almost every newborn. 

Pieter van Ry, Director at South Platte Renew & City of Englewood Utilities and his employees work hard to lower the levels of PFAS in our water, but it is difficult for them to keep up as consumers increasingly use products that contain PFAS.

To minimize PFAS, consider these actions you can take: 

  • Be wary of any ingredient with “fluoro” in its name.  

  • Start requesting products that are not stain and water resistant. 

  • Request that the companies making your personal care products and cosmetics remove PFAS from their products

  • Stop using the old Teflon-coated cookware. 

  • Request your favorite take-out restaurants and grocery stores to stop using PFAS-coated wrappings.

If we as consumers put pressure on producers to remove these chemicals and find safe alternatives, we can reduce the damage to our health and our children’s health.

 
JANICE L BROWN